Problems, Philosophy, and Motivation: Trail Blazing Instructors for the Digital Frontier

Abstract

A qualitative research study was conducted of innovative instructors who use the Internet to deliver college level courses. The study focuses on key concepts expressed by all of the Pioneers as important and develops recommendations for other instructors beginning to use the Internet for instructional purposes. Results are presented on the problems encountered, the Pioneers' philosophies toward teaching and learning, and the Pioneers' motives for moving their courses to the Internet. This research is a multiple case study that used four instructors from a university in the South concerning three courses being taught over the Internet during the Spring term of 1996.