E-Learning and Business Plans: National and International Case Studies

The promise held by the personal computer and the Internet has come true in some cases, but it remains to be seen whether distance learning can deliver. Courses are out there, of course, but the technology has proven to be extraordinarily expensive, given high initial costs and increasingly pricey upgrades, and those creating coursework have not yet been able to dissolve the not-so-virtual wall between instructor and students. These ten articles are designed to get coursework off to a good start and reduce the difficulties in planning and offering a high-quality educational experience in a timely and cost-effective manner. Drawing on the experience of international contributors, the articles cover the basics on e-learning and e-learners, tools and emerging technologies, starting courses as a new business venture, building and managing personnel, marketing specialist technology information services, structuring interdepartmental collaboration, conducting learner-centered e-learning, and creating quality education while reducing costs. Annotation c2008 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

Tiffini Travis is the Director of Information Literacy and Outreach Services at CSU Long Beach.

Elaina Norlin is the Manager of New Initiatives and Outreach for OCLC (Online Computer Library Center). She was formerly a senior program officer at the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) and was on the faculty at the University of Arizona Library, Tucson, as an Associate Librarian.