Perceptions of graduate students on the use of web-based instruction in special education personnel preparation

Abstract: This study examined the perceptions of 88 graduate students on the use of Web-based instruction in preparing special education personnel. Following the collection of data using surveys, 6 participants were randomly selected from the original sample and interviewed. Findings supported Web-based instruction as a convenient way for students to pursue their education. Furthermore, findings indicated that Web-based courses with increased structure and organization resulted in improved learning outcomes. Greater opportunities for learner and instructor interaction in Web-based courses increased the probability of acquiring anticipated learning goals and objectives. Finally, technological problems and a lack of user-friendly technology jeopardize the effectiveness of Web-based instruction. Distance education has been defined asinstitution-based formal education in which learners are separated from each other in terms of space, time, or both (Baker, 2003). Synchronous or asynchronous telecommunica-tion systems are utilized to connect learners, instructors, and resources (Kelsey & D’souza, 2004; Motamedi, 2001). Various forms of distance education, such as Web-based instruc-tion (WBI), are used extensively to deliver instruction to countless learners all over the world (Simonson, Smaldino, Albright, & Zvacek, 2003). The global proliferation of computer hardware and software has resulted in the widespread utilization of the Internet in highe