There is currently a technological revolution taking place in higher education. The growth of e-learning is being described as explosive, unprecedented, and above all, disruptive. This timely and comprehensive book provides a coherent framework for understanding e-learning in higher education. The authors draw on their extensive research in the area to explore the technological, pedagogical and organisational implications of e-learning, and more importantly, they provide practical models for educators to use to realise the full potential of e-learning. A unique feature of the book is that the authors focus less on the ever-evolving technologies and more on the search for an understanding of these technologies from an educational perspective. This book will be invaluable for researchers, practitioners and senior administrators looking for guidance on how to successfully adopt e-learning in their institutions. It will also appeal to anyone with an interest in the impact of e-learning on higher education and society.

Table of Contents

Part I: Conceptual Framework 1. Introduction 2. Theoretical Foundation 3. Community of Inquiry 4. The Technology of E-Learning 5. Social Presence 6. Cognitive Presence 7. Teaching Presence Part II: Practice 8. Guidelines for Practice 9. Assessment and Evaluation 10. Organizational Issues 11. Future Directions