Web-based learning environments (WBLE): Current implementation and evolving trends

摘要

This study focuses on the identification of emerging models and trends in the development of Web--based learning environments (WBLE). The pace of growth of WBLEs, the variability in their quality. and the gap between educators' expectations and actual realization, increase the need to map educational Web sites in systematic ways. Aiming to deal with such a mapping, we developed a taxonomy of WBLE's, implemented it for the study of about 500 educational Web sites, and elaborated on practical implications of the study's results. The overall picture we have unveiled may sound deceptive, and can be summarized as 'one step ahead for the technology, two steps back for the pedagogy'. But a more thoughtful consideration of the results suggest directions for the further develop ment of novel Web--based educational models regarding have main areas f curricular issues, co1laborative learning, learning communities, visual languages, and distance learning.