1	Not Teaching Online Using WebCT? Why Not? Bill Droddy, Joe Jurczyk & Maria Smith
2	Introduction Distance Learning The University of Akron Distance Learning at the University of Akron WebCT Features How is WebCT used by instructors Issues with WebCT WebCT Support WebCT Administration Proposed Solution
3	Distance Learning Provides an alternative to method of delivering instruction for educational institutions, corporations & other organizations. Low cost Cuts down on travel Increased communication Easy distribution of materials Allows for more flexibility in schedules
4	The University of Akron Commuter campus 24,100 students 89.3% of students live in Summit County and its adjoining counties Competes with Kent State University, Cleveland State University & Youngstown State University The University also has the following campuses Community & Technical College Wayne College Holmes County Extension Medina County Extension
5	Distance Learning at The University of Akron Initially used ERes Began Using LMS (Learning Management Software) in late ’90s A University faculty committee selected WebCT as the Universities single system in 2000 WebCT offered much more personalization & adaptability
6	WebCT Features WebCT has many built-in and add-on features, but the most commonly used ones are the following: Content Delivery Discussions E-mail Chat Quizzes & Surveys Grades
7	How is WebCT Used by Instructors Web Enhanced Courses
8	How is WebCT Used by Instructors Web Based Courses
9	Issues with WebCT Time Requirements “Teaching an online course requires additional pre-course planning and preparation than a F2F [face-to-face] class. Online classes utilize the student's home PC more so than the F2F class where the software has been setup in the classroom.”
10	Issues with WebCT Inability to Replicate the Classroom Experience “As an instructor, I find I develop a surge of energy when I go into a traditional classroom while somehow the computer just saps it right out of me … Do some of us get our energy from actual interactions with people rather than through a computer? … Should we require a personality test to see who is best to teach and learn in this method? … I cannot ever imagine myself sitting in front of a computer 60 hours a week doing all of my teaching in this method.”
11	Issues with WebCT Lack of Remuneration “There is so much I would like to do, learn and incorporate into my online classes, but as we see here, it takes a lot of time and planning mainly upfront, and time is not a luxury most of us have. Incentives might boost the quality of online classes.”
12	Issues with WebCT Not For Everyone “The difference between on-line and face-to-face is the level of accountability for both teaching and learning. It takes a disciplined teacher to anticipate and plan instruction/activity on line. It takes a disciplined student to work independently and manage time. Nothing is for everybody! … I like variety...so I like a little bit of both…Many students who are the wall flowers in a traditional classroom are the ones that shine in an online environment, and visa versa.”
13	WebCT Support Design & Development Services Assists in design, development, and management of web-based and web-enhanced courses delivered on WebCT Software Training & Technology Services Provides training and help desk services for instructors and students at the University on various applications Computer Based Assessment and Evaluation Provides services in the design, development, and deployment of online tests, surveys, and assessments
14	WebCT Administration A variety of training is available on the University and departmental levels Despite the available training, there seems to be some amount of disconnect between available training and academic requirements "WebCT and other technologies should be part of the University's academic plan; they are not at this time."
15	Proposed Solution More instruction for the faculty Provide a quick introduction to the WebCT platform and allow them to make a more-informed decision on whether or not to use WebCT and how it might be used to enhance their instruction Departmental “guru” By sharing experiences, both good and bad, instructors learn from their colleagues and receive a clearer view of the possibilities and limitations offered by using WebCT in their courses Set up all courses with a WebCT component If only for the sole purpose to increase communication between the students
16	Conclusion WebCT is simply another step in the evolution of distance-learning As technology evolves, so to will the tactics for the delivery of education Faculty cannot be forced to use this technology, all we can do is help them along the way.