This PDF is about applying ACTION model to evaluate distance education technology. This is about computer and networking technology.

1. ACTIONS Model
For selecting distance education media and technology
(Computer & networking)
Access
 How accessible is a particular technology for learners?
Computing and networking technology has shaped a unique paradigm of access
to instruction, characterized by easy and unlimited access to information, real-
time or delayed interaction. It is easy to access. Moreover, the Internet provides
access to a vast amount of up-to-date information. Computers increase access.
Local, regional, and national networks link resources and individuals, wherever
they might be.
 How flexible is it for a particular target group?
Computing and networking technology provide flexible learning for target group
compared with other type of media. The WWW, specifically, has become the most
popular and easy to use service of the Internet and provides access to most Internet
services (e.g., e-mail, desk-top conferencing, FTP, etc.) and resources (e.g., text
databases, multimedia and hypermedia archives, etc.) with no limit to the number of
students
Costs
 What is the cost structure of each technology?
Computer and networking is very cost effective. Internet is stand-alone media. It
avoids both the course provider and the learner having to pay for
communication, sending and receiving feedback and access to learning
resources.
 What is the unit cost per student?
Computer networks are costly to develop. Although individual computers are
relatively inexpensive and the computer hardware and software market is very

2. competitive, it is still costly to develop instructional networks and purchase the
system software to run them.
 What are the opportunity costs vs. other technology choices?
Comparing to other technologies which used in the distance education like TV,
radio and print and post materials computer and networking play a big role in
enhancing learning at distance for several reasons, it supports two types of
interaction (asynchronous/synchronous). Also, it's very flexible and cost
effectiveness and it is stand-alone media. As a result, it is the best technology used in
the distance. It got the higher score.
Teaching and Learning
 What kinds of learning are needed?
Computer and networking supports all types of learning. It supports both self-
based learning and group-based. It supports two types of interaction
(asynchronous/synchronous).Any type of learning can be used with this
technology.
 What instructional approaches will best meet these needs?
Computers can facilitate self-paced learning. In the CAI mode, for example,
computers individualize learning, while giving immediate reinforcement and
feedback. Computers are a multimedia tool. With integrated graphic, print,
audio, and video capabilities, computers can effectively link various technologies.
Interactive video and CD-ROM technologies can be incorporated into computer-
based instructional units, lessons, and learning environments.
 What are the best technologies for supporting teaching and learning in this
environment?
According to the results that shows the features of computers and networking. It
seems that it is the best technology used to support teaching and learning at
distance. For example, Computer-based multimedia applications integrated with
the WWW) to enhance the learning experience, allowing them to be used
without need for the support of other types of media.

3.  Can the content be adapted to the technology?
Yes, different type of content can be adapted using computer and networking.
For example, it integrates text, audio, animation and video and supports any type
of multimedia.
 What skills does the technology develop?
Computer and networking develop many skills like writing in discussion board,
searching for resources, interaction with the (teacher and students, student-
student-student-content and student machine). Computer Networking classes
combine lectures and hands-on practice to gain knowledge in configuring a
system. Courses may include discussions, lectures and projects that deal with basic
Networking principles and current developments in the field. Topics studied in a
Computer Networking class may include:
 Performance analysis and measurement
 Protocol mechanisms
 Network control, sequencing and simulation
 Advanced network architecture
 Security issues
Interactivity and User-friendliness
 What kind of interaction does this technology enable?
Computer and networking technology facilitate two-way interaction between
the tutor and learners, among learners, between the learner and the learning
materials and between the learner and the machine or technology that delivers
instruction.
 How easy is it to use and learn?
Computer and networking support learning that can be time-independent (e.g.,
emails) or time-dependent (chat). Both of these two types are useful and
required to deliver instruction and motivate and support students. Also, it
supports learning which happened in individual settings and it supports,

4. encourages social and group-based learning using on-line discussions and
collaborative projects. Distance education media need to support both of these
two styles
Organizational Issues
 What are the organizational requirements to provide stability and support?
Computer and networking media is simple and available to access at homes
or schools, easy to use by educators and students to deliver and receive
instruction, fast enough in terms of transmission and updating of content, etc.
 What are the barriers to using this technology successfully within the
institution?
Because this technology is easy to delivery- ease to access-ease to use-speed
well-flexible and cost effectiveness. All these features make computer and
networking the best choice of the institution.
 What changes need to be made within the organization to incorporate the
technology?
There are many changes need to be made within the organization to incorporate
computer and networking such as, provides computer devices and it is connection.
Novelty
 How new is the technology?
The technology is changing rapidly. Computer technology evolves so quickly that
the distant educator focused solely on innovation. It will constantly change
equipment in an effort to keep pace with the "latest" technical advancements.
Computer technology is rapidly advancing.
 What are its technical capabilities?
Computer and networking has evolved new channels of delivery that have
encouraged educators to present materials in ways that did not exist a few years

5. ago. In addition, it has offered many tools to conduct asynchronous/synchronous
interaction between the tutor and learners and among learners themselves.
Speed
 How quickly can courses be created and distributed with this technology?
You can quickly create courses using computer and networking. The course can
be every bit as effective as traditional lectures, workshops, and independent
study, yet they have an added benefit: they enable both instructors and students
to work according to their own optimum pace and schedule. The course can be
easily distributed through computer and networking with high quality of the
course. This technology makes the world as a small town.
 How quickly can materials be changed?
You can quickly change materials using computer and networks. With the
advent of the Internet and the multiple formats that can be communicated over
the World Wide Web, we now have several new and exciting ways to change
and update materials and information. The Web allows you to change animation,
moving pictures, and sound into lessons compared with other types of
technology.
In conclusion, computer and networking play a big role in the development of
distance education. In my opinion, it is the best technology the world has ever
made.