The Online Learning Idea Book February 01, 2008 95 proven ways to enhance technology-based and blended learning (Edited by Patti Shank, Pfeiffer, 354 pages, $50)
By Jane Bozarth
Overall Rating: 4 Stars
"This is a fun book, so have fun."
Just in time, here's a wonderful gift from Patti Shank. She offers nearly 100 ideas for online learning activities and enhancers, developed and used by real live trainers. Each item is provided with a quick overview so you can decide whether it's of interest to you, a screenshot of how the thing looks as it appears online, directions for using it, and suggestions for adapting it. An especially valuable chapter—one that addresses a big gap in the existing e-learning literature—offers real ways of making online discussions work: The "Karma Points" rubric is the best I’ve seen, anywhere, ever, for assessing the quality of learner discussion postings.
There are also great real-world ideas for generating interactivity and collaboration; suggestions for using media; and tips for creative design, games, and activities—all of it with a great sense of fun. (Without giving too much away, let me just say I will forever be delighted by the "Home for Abused Apostrophes" Website.) Those who think "personality" is lost online need a whack on the side of the head with this book. While there are a couple of famous contributors, the bulk of items comes from fresh voices, practitioners in the field who were willing to share something especially useful to the rest of us. This is a fabulous tool for those working in online learning. Highly recommended.
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