Teaching PA Online: Reflections of a Skeptic

Abstract

Since online courses encompass many types of pedagogical techniques, instructors and students, large scale comparison studies are difficult to conduct in a scientifically rigorous manner. What is needed is an accumulation of case studies and forums for instructors to share techniques and best practices. Based on his experience and a review of the literature, the author concludes that the flexibility and opportunities for intensive, equal intellectual exchange afforded by online courses must be weighed against challenges related to student socialization and faculty workload. Overall, the demonstrable benefits suggest that there is a legitimate place for online education in public administration programs.

Notes

^aRespondents include eight students from the class, a personal interview with the campus Director of Technology (including oversight of all online courses), and one of the most experienced online instructors on campus.