Integrating web-based learning into the curriculum - From resources to web-based courses

This chapter presents an introduction to and overview of Web-enhanced and Web-based learning and teaching in a conventional higher education setting, with particular focus on the use of Internet resources and models of Web-based courses. After a theoretical introduction to computer-enhanced and computer-based learning and teaching, these theoretical approaches will then be applied to teaching with the Internet. Two areas of Internet application in teaching will be discussed: Using Internet resources in the form of linklists and connected tasks, and Web-based courses based on two course models. The latter will look at preliminary findings of ongoing research that is investigating models of Web-enhanced teaching and their application in a classroom situation. I have used two teaching models as pilots in language teaching, language teacher training, and applied science to evaluate their generic character. The purpose of these models is to cater for different needs. The Web-based courses are used as delivery methods in class, but also to facilitate open learning in the form of preparation, revision, and consolidation of the course by being online. An emphasis of this chapter is on the teaching methods underlying these Web-based course models and in how far they support different learner types. The study involves an in-depth look at two courses; "Web-based Language Learning" and "Web site Design and Development." Evaluations of these courses allow an insight into how students from different backgrounds (language students, language tutors, and science students) cope with and use the online courses. I will also draw attention to some of the difficulties I encountered while developing and delivering the courses and suggest ways in which these models can be developed further. Some of the teaching materials referred to in this chapter are accessible online at: http://lang.anglia.ac.uk:8300/call/index.html.