| I'm arguing that we need to
explore the value of incorporating face-to-face, oral
communication in some distance education courses.
If physical meetings on campus are not possible, then
perhaps video conferencing can provide a viable
substitute. I'm not arguing that all courses need an oral component; I am suggesting that some students may not succeed withoug the immediacy of face-to-face interaction in a writing course. For this reason, I've been reluctant to give up the oral in my teaching. Students I have worked with at open admissions institutions need the time to practice speaking as a segue to writing; they thrive on face-to-face interaction; and they need considerable coaching and confirmation as they proceed through a course. |