Digital Dilemma: Issues of Access, Cost, and Quality in Media-Enhanced and Distance Education

"A clear, jargon-free, interesting report that takes a serious look at the digital dilemma issues and provides a good perspective."--Steven Sachs, dean of information technology, Northern Virginia Community CollegeThis report not only examines issues of access and equity in computer-mediated education, but also explores issues of cost, affordability, quality, and effectiveness. As policymakers and institutional planners struggle to make sense of new and emerging technology, they also must be prepared to implement statewide and federal policy reforms, standardize hardware and software configurations, affirm the social nature of learning, and preserve the quality and core values of higher education. The author discusses these and other key issues of the new digital age, offering advice and recommAndations to thoughtful leaders on the "front lines" of change.

GERALD C. VAN DUSEN is a professor of English, with a special interest in active learning and alternative delivery methods, at Wayne County Community College in Detroit, Michigan. He has extensive experience in technologically mediated environments, including interactive television and online education. His current research is focused on nontraditional students, learning styles, and instructional technology.