Our goal with this book, Research on Enhancing the Interactivity of
Online Learning, is to present a juried, scholarly, and accessible
review of research, theory, and/or policy on specific issues of
interactive online learning for K-16 educators, administrators, and
students of online learning. Online learning has become the norm rather
than the exception for many of today's students. Instructors are more
willing to explore online learning options, students are enrolling in
record numbers and colleges, as well as many K-12 institutions, are
offering more online courses. As educators, we have more tools than ever
to ensure online course success, but just as with a traditional class,
we must continue to place emphasis on good pedagogy. To achieve good
pedagogy, online teaching takes additional time and a restructuring of
course content by the instructor. Student issues include coping
strategies, ease of navigation, skills required to complete the course,
availability of online resources, feedback from the instructor, and
collaborative, interactive learning opportunities. Principles of
interactive online learning are new to many, and this book provides a
forum for interactive online learning research while also including
ideas that enhance both the practical and theoretical aspects of
interactive online learning. The editors have included chapters that can
further knowledge and understanding of emerging trends and foster debate
regarding issues that surround interactive online learning. The
underlying theme of each chapter is the importance of pedagogy that is
research-based and effective. It is our hope that the experiences,
advice, and recommendations of the authors featured in this book will
further your growth in effective interactive online learning and design
as you continue to explore what enhances student learning.
