Journal of Online Learning Research and Practice Volume 7, Number 2, 2019 | Page 5

Journal of Online Learning Research and Practice
almost all devices. They conclude that their usability testing shows the application
is easy to use and effectively supports preservice teachers in classroom management
development and decision-making.
As more institutions shift to offering online courses and trainings, focusing
on effective instructor discussion methods is important. Zhou (2015) conducted
a comprehensive review of empirical studies from 2000-2014, and found a range
of approaches, variables of focus, and types of studies. Drs. Bogar and Spencer
present their four specific elements and related strategies for faculty members, or
online facilitators, to implement for effective student engagement and interactions
in online settings.
In the From the Field section, Dr. Vernon Smith, Senior Vice President and
Provost at American Public University System, is featured in 3 Questions for an
Online Learning Leader. Dr. Smith adds insights to incorporating OERs by adding
considerations from a leadership/administrative perspective. He discusses aspects
of competency-based learning and shares views on future trends in online education.
Dr. Heidi Lockwood’s book review provides an overview of eLearning Industry’s
(2017) e-book The Ultimate Guide to eLearning Infographics. Dr. Lockwood
gives an overview of the book’s seven articles, which focus on simple steps,
tips, and guidelines for creating and using infographics in learning contexts to enhance
course design. The goal is to balance text and visuals and points draw from
cognitive science and other fields.
In this issue’s media review, Andrea Dunn responds to questions about her
oversight of electronic course materials. She explains challenges with technology
integration of OERs and other online materials, related analytics, and general database
management. Andrea answers questions about changes and trends in curating
and managing electronic course materials.
This issue provides a range of practices and tools for university constituents
to consider with a larger emphasis on OERs. Articles capture examples, theory,
and experience from the field. As always, I hope you extract discussion points that
you can share with your own students, colleagues, or supervisors to prompt new
directions in discourse, research, and practice.
Enjoy!
Dr. Kathleen J. Tate,
Editor-in-Chief of Journal of Online Learning Research and Practice
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