An integrated science course moves online: four concurrent perspectives

2014 ◽  
Vol 6 (2) ◽  
pp. 248-268 ◽  
Author(s):  
Amanda E. Major ◽  
S. Raj Chaudhury ◽  
Betsy M. Gilbertson ◽  
David T. King Jr
Keyword(s):  
Distance Learning ◽  
Online Education ◽  
Research University ◽  
Course Design ◽  
Qualitative Inquiry ◽  
Faculty Members ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Team Approach ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Face To Face

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to understand the lived experiences from the voice of the authors (a science professor, an instructional designer, a distance learning doctoral intern, and a distance learning director) in the process of transitioning a face-to-face science course to online modality at a large, research university. Design/methodology/approach – The method of this qualitative inquiry involves a personal narrative approach in which the authors reflect on their experiences of this process and analyze it through writing. Findings – The findings examine the challenges of moving a traditional course online and reiterate the value of a team approach to ensure its quality. The narrative offers clarity to the different phases of such a project and can enhance decision making among those involved in course design and delivery, as well as administrators incentivizing the conversion of traditional courses to the online modality. Practical implications – Online education has emerged as a viable solution. The challenges and rewards of transitioning face-to-face courses to distance learning modalities are well documented, even for a senior science educator. Social implications – Universities face several modern day challenges, including reductions in state appropriations, lack of available space for classes, challenges of engaging a technologically savvy generation, and preparing students for a global marketplace. Originality/value – To support faculty members’ transition to online education, universities offer instructional design support, where ideas are exchanged with faculty members to ensure pedagogically sound and engaging distance learning. The authors conclude with recommendations for both practice and future research in the area of practice and process improvement for diffusion of online courses at traditional universities, one course at a time. This is important to those beginning to transition course offerings online.

scholarly journals ONLINE AND DISTANCE LEARNING IN SUDANESE UNIVERSITIES: A NECESSITY IN THE LIGHT OF THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC

2021 ◽  
Vol 5 (10) ◽  
Author(s):  
Prof.G.K Viju ◽  
Prof.G.K Viju
Keyword(s):  
Distance Learning ◽  
Online Education ◽  
Meta Analysis ◽  
Relevant Literature ◽  
Faculty Members ◽  
Educational Institutions ◽  
Analysis Method ◽  
Face To Face ◽  
The Core ◽  
The World

Considering the growing concerns about the outbreak of Covid-19, a large number of educational institutions around the world have been shut down in connection with face-to-face classes. Because of this virus, damage to education has increased; As we face the unpredictable future found around the world, we need to provide our society as a whole with flexible and vibrant education systems. In this paper, a meta-analysis method is adopted and the related literature. Relevant literature was conducted to entrap the core of further study during the period. Findings show that universities around the world are increasingly moving toward online education or elearning. The study also shows that ICT is an important component of integrated learning, in addition to a variety of resources such as staff willingness, trust, student reachability, and stimulus. This paper suggests that faculty members should use and use technology and technical clothing to enhance learning during these unexpected times. This suggests that online and distance learning is a requirement during lock-down and social distance due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Ownership-based asymmetries in training evaluation practices of call centres

2019 ◽  
Vol 51 (1) ◽  
pp. 13-23 ◽  
Author(s):  
Muhammad Ali Asadullah ◽  
Jean Marie Peretti ◽  
Walid Derbel ◽  
Sarra Rajhi
Keyword(s):  
Firm Heterogeneity ◽  
Training Evaluation ◽  
Qualitative Inquiry ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Call Centre ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Evaluation Practice ◽  
Evaluation Practices ◽  
Measuring Training

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to explore the underlying asymmetries in training evaluation practices of call centre (CC) firms based on their “in-house” and “subcontractor” ownership heterogeneity. Design/methodology/approach The data for this qualitative inquiry were collected from key informants of 13 different CCs in Pakistan through semi-structured interviews. Findings The findings revealed various asymmetries in training evaluation practices among in-house and subcontractor CCs based on five different dimensions of two renowned training evaluation frameworks. Practical implications Training evaluation professionals can benefit from training evaluation methods identified in this study for measuring training evaluation practice and advancing future research. Originality/value This study has theoretically contributed to the existing research on firm heterogeneity and human resource management by focussing on training evaluation practices in CCs.

Learning together and working apart: routines for organizational learning in virtual teams

2017 ◽  
Vol 24 (3) ◽  
pp. 138-149 ◽  
Author(s):  
Nancy Dixon
Keyword(s):  
Organizational Learning ◽  
Virtual Teams ◽  
Virtual Team ◽  
Critical Issue ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Information Industry ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Face To Face ◽  
Virtual Teaming

Purpose Research suggests that teaming routines facilitate learning in teams. This paper identifies and details how specific teaming routines, implemented in a virtual team, support its continual learning. The study’s focus was to generate authentic and descriptive accounts of the interviewees’ experiences with virtual teaming routines. Design/methodology/approach This case study gathered concrete, practical and context-dependent knowledge about virtual teaming routines in a specific environment. The main source of data was narrative expert interviews with working members of the team. Findings This study illustrates how a mix of face-to-face and virtual routines can ensure organizational learning in virtual teams. Research limitations/implications This case study is limited to one virtual team in the information industry. Future research could build on this research to study virtual teams in other industries. Practical implications This research offers specific examples of teaming routines that managers of virtual teams might adapt in managing their own teams. Social implications Given that the use of virtual teams is a growing phenomenon, understanding how to help those teams learn effectively is a critical issue. Originality/value This case study extends the research on teaming routines to virtual teams.

scholarly journals Distance Learning in Greece during Covid-19 Pandemic

2021 ◽  
Vol 4 (2) ◽  
pp. p69
Author(s):  
Apostolou George ◽  
Papatsimpas Achilleas ◽  
Gounas Athanasios ◽  
Gkouna Ourania
Keyword(s):  
Distance Learning ◽  
Online Education ◽  
Educational Process ◽  
Statistical Hypothesis ◽  
Hypothesis Tests ◽  
Face To Face ◽  
The Future ◽  
E Learning ◽  
Face To Face Learning ◽  
Restrictive Measures

The purpose of this study is to investigate the reaction of Greeks to this new educational reality due to the Covid-19 outbreak. Since the first restrictive measures were implemented in March 2020in Greece, distance learning has become a dynamic part of people’s daily lives with the prospect of remain in gas such in the future. A total of N=170 students, parents, teachers, civil servants, private sector employees who were involved in the distance learning process either as instructors or as students in the period of Covid-19 pandemic in Greece, were selected with the use of snowball sampling. A questionnaire using demographic and satisfaction related variables was completed by the respondents, namely citizens across Greece, based on a Likert scale questionnaire which is a useful and multidimensional instrument, to assess satisfaction within the time frame from July 7, 2020 to October 20, 2020; the period when there occurred a loosening in the restrictive measures between the two lockdowns in Greece. It was investigated how the demographic factors, specifically gender, age, occupation, and place of residence, influence the attitude of the respondents towards synchronous and asynchronous distance learning as well as their intention to continue using online education services in the future after the lifting of the restrictive measures. Additionally, the customers’ preferences concerning the most enjoyable distance learning experience were examined, so that they will be available to the distance learning program designers. Descriptive statistical analysis and non-parametric statistical hypothesis tests were conducted in SPSS and R. Most of the respondents had not participated in online courses before the Covid-19 outbreak, 46 % did participate in e-learning courses before the Covid-19 lockdown while 54 % did not and 34.1% respondents prefer face-to-face learning, while 15.9% prefer e-learning. Also, 50% respondents prefer a combination of face-to-face learning and e-learning. Hypothesis tests showed that there are statistically significant differences between users’ preferences as well as regarding their demographic characteristics. Undergraduate and postgraduate university students continue to participate in online learning courses and are willing to invest financial resources and time in this new educational process (?2(4)=10.440, p=0.034), unlike high school students who prefer face-to-face learning (p=0.042). The present study will lead to practical implications, such as the formation of e-learning programs which aim for the best user experience and the best learning outcomes. Also, private educational organizations can include the results in the key elements to implementing a strategic marketing mix.

Perceptions, predictors and consequences of whistleblowing among accounting employees in Barbados

2017 ◽  
Vol 25 (2) ◽  
pp. 241-267 ◽  
Author(s):  
Philmore Alleyne ◽  
Wayne Charles-Soverall ◽  
Tracey Broome ◽  
Amanda Pierce
Keyword(s):  
Organizational Support ◽  
Personal Responsibility ◽  
Codes Of Conduct ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Cultural Norms ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Face To Face ◽  
Qualitative Approaches ◽  
Personal Costs ◽  
Internal Whistleblowing

Purpose Whistleblowing has been receiving increased attention and support in recent times as a means of detecting and correcting wrongdoing in organizations. This study aims to examine perceptions, attitudes and consequences (actions and reactions) of whistleblowing, as well as the predictors of internal and external whistleblowing intentions, by using Graham’s (1986) model of principled organizational dissent in a small emerging and collectivist culture like Barbados. Design/methodology/approach The study utilized a self-administered survey of 282 accounting employees working in organizations in Barbados. Findings Results reveal that there is little awareness of whistleblowing legislation. Most respondents perceive whistleblowing as ethical and favor internal over external whistleblowing. Findings show that personal responsibility and personal costs significantly influence internal whistleblowing intentions, while personal costs influence external whistleblowing. Using qualitative data, several themes emerged as influencing whistleblowing: perceived benefits of whistleblowing, actual whistleblowing experiences (handling of reports), personal costs (climate of fear and hostility), perceived lack of anonymity and cultural norms. Research limitations/implications Future research should control for social desirability bias and use more rigorous qualitative approaches such as face-to-face interviews and focus groups to gain in-depth opinions and feelings on the topic. Practical implications Whistleblowing can be achieved through such mechanisms as perceived organizational support, strong ethical codes of conduct, rewarding ethical behavior and promoting sound work ethics in organizations. Originality/value This paper explores whistleblowing in an emerging economy where there has been little research on the topic. Thus, this study supplements the existing research in emerging economies by examining the applicability of Graham’s (1986) model of principled organizational dissent.

A Review of Distant Administration in the Context of Openness Problems of Open Distance Learning Administrators, Teachers, and Students

2022 ◽  
pp. 19-43
Author(s):  
Oytun Sözüdoğru ◽  
Nazime Tuncay
Keyword(s):  
Distance Education ◽  
Distance Learning ◽  
Literature Review ◽  
Online Education ◽  
Research Study ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Teachers And Students

Online education has expanded greatly together with the increasing online remote teaching and administrating jobs. The open accessibility, freedom of time, freedom of place, freedom of pace, open programming, openness to everyone, and open sources make the administration of distance education even harder and more challenging. Institutions should make sure that their administrators are talented, knowledgeable, and hardworking to cope with the administration problems at hand. This chapter consists of a literature review in open and distance education studies; a brief analysis of distant programs; a research study with distant students, teachers, and administrators; problems in administrating education out of sight; priority and trends in open and distance education; and possible directions for future research.

scholarly journals Perception towards quality and effectiveness of social work education through open and distance learning

2019 ◽  
Vol 14 (1) ◽  
pp. 64-83 ◽  
Author(s):  
Bishnu Mohan Dash
Keyword(s):  
Social Work ◽  
Distance Learning ◽  
Social Work Education ◽  
Field Work ◽  
Faculty Members ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Interview Guide ◽  
Open And Distance Learning ◽  
School Of Social Work ◽  
Work Education

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to highlight the perception of the students towards the quality and effectiveness of social work education offered by Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) through open and distance learning (ODL). Design/methodology/approach The sample size consisted of 150 students, 15 academic counsellors engaged in either teaching or development sectors, or faculty members of School of Social Work of IGNOU. The methods of data collection included interviews and content analysis. Interview schedule for students, interview guide for academic counsellors and interview guide for faculty members were used. Findings The study centres were allotted as per student’s choice. Students were satisfied with the counsellors because of their support, availability, contact, accessibility and assisting the students to clearing their doubts. The study found that the student’s attendance in counselling sessions was found to be negligible, even a large number of respondents were not aware of the ODL system. The study also shows that students face lots of problem with regard to their field work supervision and other components of field work as were also neglected. Practical implications The findings of the study are extremely relevant for formulating necessary guidelines for improving the social work education through ODL mode. The study recommends revision of course materials translated in Hindi language, holding of individual and group conferences regularly as well as proper evaluation of field work reports. Originality/value This is first such study conducted in India to examine the effectiveness of social work education through ODL.

Case Studies of ICT-Enhanced Blended Learning and Implications for Professional Development

2011 ◽  
pp. 239-258
Author(s):  
Gail Wilson
Keyword(s):  
Professional Development ◽  
Blended Learning ◽  
Learning Environments ◽  
Faculty Members ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Collective Case Study ◽  
Face To Face ◽  
Regional University ◽  
Professional Development For Teachers ◽  
The Face

This chapter draws on a collective case study of six faculty members working in ICT-enhanced blended learning environments at a large regional university in Australia. The chapter identifies seven dimensions of the blended learning environments created by each teacher, with a particular focus on four of these dimensions – the teacher, the online, the resource-based learning and the institutional support dimension. The research showed how individual faculty members worked to blend their courses through their overall approaches to course planning, their focus on combining the strengths of both the face-toface and the online learning environments, and their eagerness to shift their pedagogical approaches to accommodate the best features of both the face-to-face and the online environments. The chapter makes recommendations for professional development for teachers that is effective in preparing them for creating and working in blended learning environments and suggests areas for future research in the area of blended learning.

The Transition From Teaching F2F to Online

2020 ◽  
pp. 67-84 ◽  
Author(s):  
Steven Tolman ◽  
Matt Dunbar ◽  
K. Brooke Slone ◽  
Allie Grimes ◽  
Christopher A. Trautman
Keyword(s):  
Online Education ◽  
Faculty Member ◽  
Lessons Learned ◽  
Faculty Members ◽  
Face To Face ◽  
Online Environments

As online education continues to grow, more and more faculty find themselves transitioning from teaching face-to-face to online environments. Unsurprisingly, this can be challenging for many faculty as they go through this process. This book chapters examines the experience of a faculty member who transitioned from teaching exclusively face-to-face to online and lessons learned are shared. Additionally, four students share their experience learning online and provide recommendations to faculty members.

Omani SME perceptions towards Islamic financing systems

2019 ◽  
Vol 11 (4) ◽  
pp. 369-386
Author(s):  
Yasmeen Al Balushi ◽  
Stuart Locke ◽  
Zakaria Boulanouar
Keyword(s):  
Banking Industry ◽  
Small And Medium Enterprises ◽  
Emerging Market ◽  
Capital City ◽  
Islamic Finance ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Islamic Banking ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Face To Face ◽  
Medium Enterprises

Purpose This paper aims to investigate small and medium enterprises’ (SMEs) owner–managers’ awareness, willingness and perceptions concerning Islamic financing instruments as an alternative sourcing decision in SMEs’ businesses. Design/methodology/approach The research employed mixed methods to gather data. A questionnaire survey was conducted via face-to-face interviews with 385 SME owner–managers operating in Muscat, Oman’s capital city, along with face-to-face discussion on Islamic finance with 86 SME owner–managers. Descriptive and thematic analysis were used to analyse the data. Findings The findings indicate that SME owner–managers are aware of Islamic banking principles and have knowledge of Islamic financial instruments, despite Islamic finance being new to Oman. Interestingly, although the majority of the participants indicated their intention to adopt this new finance method, they were motivated by special requirements other than finance. Their positive perception of Islamic financing methods could play a significant role in developing the Islamic banking industry. Research limitations/implications The research is limited in that its data came only from Omani SME owner–managers in Muscat. Future research could investigate wider samples. Secondly, the study’s findings lack generalisability to larger and public enterprises, because only SME owner–managers were surveyed. Practical implications This study will be important for policy makers concerned about SMEs’ financing, Islamic financial institutions and new entrants into the Islamic banking industry, as it provides empirically evidence of Omanis’ views, and more specifically those of Omani SME owner–managers, on the recent introduction of Islamic finance into the country. The insights this study offers should help them to develop the strategies required to attract SMEs and to construct policies and regulations to improve Oman’s Islamic banking industry. Originality/value The research is significant, as it is the first study to investigate the awareness, willingness and perceptions of Omani SMEs regarding Islamic banking in Oman. Even though all Omanis are Muslims, Oman was the last of the six-nation Gulf Cooperation Council countries to introduce Islamic finance. Thus, this emerging market provides an important basis from which to extend future research on Islamic finance to other potential Islamic finance markets.

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