Teaching Technology in an Online, Distance Education Environment

1 Maxine S. Cohen, Nova Southeastern University, School of Computer and Information Sciences, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33314, [email protected] 2 Timothy J. Ellis, Nova Southeastern University, School of Computer and Information Sciences, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33314, [email protected] Abstract  There are numerous challenges inherent in teaching technology classes. These challenges are further exacerbated when teaching in an online distance education environment. A number of practical techniques used by the authors to facilitate teaching in this environment are discussed. Special tools and techniques such as bulletin boards, email, course syllabus, web pages, calendars, whiteboards, creation of a course CD, synchronous and asynchronous communication, and technology setups are examined in relation to their pedagogical relevance in the online environment. Organizational efforts such as effective planning, setting the tone, building communication, and evaluation and feedback are also discussed. This paper discusses the authors’ attempts to meet the challenges. The primary goal is to establish an effective online learning community to facilitate learning.