As an approach to the diverse and shifting learning needs of today, the learning society labours under a definitional generosity which has led to three different models evolving with competing claims. This book traces the history of the concept and lucidly lays out these three interpretive models: learning for work, learning for citizenship and learning for democracy. The book's close scrutiny concludes with an analysis that synthesizes and sharpens our understanding of the learning society. With due consideration given to the emerging critique and with chapters from public bodies engaged in implementing learning society principles, Inside the Learning Society offers a comprehensive appraisal of ideas and practices. This is a book of great significance for anyone concerned about or involved in the future of education.

Blended Learning is designed for individuals who want to improve current skills or develop online teaching skills gradually as they begin to add web skills and resources to enhance their current teaching repertoire. Many leaders from a variety of backgrounds have contributed chapters to make this book a valuable resource. The depth and range of experts include, but are not limited to Dr. Deanie French whose publications include Web Accessibility Applications: Seniors, Healthcare, and Higher Education (Institute:2002) and Internet Based Learning: An Introduction and Framework for Higher Education and Business (Stylus Publishing: 99); Dr. Barbara Lyman, author of "Holistic Learning Model for On-line Adults," a chapter in Internet Based Learning; Dr. Bruce Landon, senior advisor with the Western Cooperative for Educational Telecommunications (WCET); Dr. Gene Martin, Director of Extended and Distance Learning at Southwest Texas State University (He has performed an active role in the advancement of technology education in the United States and has served as Chair for the National Commission for Technology Education); Dr. Karen Middleton, senior project coordinator for the Western Cooperative, managing a Hewlett funded project, "E-learning Technologies: Web Resource for Comparisons;" Dr. Cyndi Rowland, Director of the national project, Keeping Web Accessibility in Mind (WebAIM); Dr. Phil Vardiman, human resource development expert with fortune 500 companies and Leo Valdes, Managing Director of Vision Office, a training and web consulting firm based in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. (He has delivered presentations related to Internet accessibility to the United Nations and representatives of South-East Asia, Latin America, the Caribbean, and Central and Eastern Europe.) For more information please visit www.e-linkagesglobal.com

This book is for every teacher or trainer-- whose computer skills may be limited-- who wants to understand the Internet educationally, and use it in his or her courses. As institutional pressures mount to integrate the Internet into teaching, this book provides a framework and a hands-on introduction to what's involved, whether it's adapting materials and teaching styles for the Web, or designing a virtual course. This book provides: + an introduction to the key educational concepts needed to adapt teaching methods and materials to the medium of the Internet + an introduction to both basic and advanced Internet skills-from using e-mail to collaborative conferencing + a framework for harnessing the Internet to achieve educational goals, and successfully exploiting its resources, features and applications to promote effective learning The framework starts from the premise that teachers should progressively apply Internet technology as their skills and confidence develop. It develops the concept of "augmented" teaching styles-supplementing traditional teaching with Intenet based options; demonstrates how to use modules as the building blocks for Web-based learning; and shows how to use the Internet to deliver individualized learning, by enhancing personal communication between teacher and student, and addressing the diversity of learning styles. The book abounds with inspiring and thought-provoking examples of Internet course materials developed by a wide variety of teachers and trainers, including modules and forms created by the authors who have extensive experience in delivering Internet-based courses. A glossary of terms and directory of Internet sites and resources complete the book, which is also supported by a related Web site.