Web-Based Instruction: A Guide for Libraries : Book Review

"Web-Based Instruction" by Susan Sharpless Smith is a comprehensive guide that offers educators practical insights and strategies for designing and implementing effective online courses. This book covers various aspects of web-based instruction, including instructional design, technology selection, assessment, and course management.

Smith begins by exploring the foundations of online learning and the unique challenges it presents. She emphasizes the importance of clear instructional goals and provides strategies for designing online courses that align with those goals. Additionally, she helps educators select the right technology tools and platforms to enhance the learning experience.

A notable strength of "Web-Based Instruction" is its learner-centered approach. Smith encourages educators to consider the needs and preferences of their students when designing online courses, and she provides guidance on incorporating instructional strategies such as collaborative learning, multimedia integration, and interactivity.

The book also delves into the assessment and evaluation of online courses. Smith offers valuable insights into designing assessments that align with course objectives and are suitable for the online environment. She discusses both formative and summative assessments, as well as strategies for providing constructive feedback to students.

Furthermore, "Web-Based Instruction" addresses the practical aspects of managing online courses, including time management, course communication, and student support. Smith shares tips for effective online facilitation, student engagement, and troubleshooting common technical issues.

What are readers saying?

The book "Web-Based Instruction" by Susan Sharpless Smith has received a variety of reviews from readers. Some readers were impressed with the book's informative content and practical insights into the world of online learning. They found it to be a valuable resource for anyone interested in exploring the potential of web-based instruction. Reviewers appreciated the author's clear writing style and ability to explain complex concepts in a way that was easy to understand. They also applauded the organization of the book, which made it simple to follow and locate specific information.

However, not all readers shared the same enthusiasm for the book. Some felt that it lacked depth and failed to provide advanced techniques or in-depth analysis on the topic of web-based instruction. Additionally, a few reviewers commented that the book felt outdated, lacking the most current information in the rapidly changing field of online learning. They also found certain concepts to be repeated unnecessarily, making the book feel repetitive.

Some readers also expressed disappointment with the book's lack of interactivity and engagement. They felt that it merely presented information without providing practical exercises or interactive activities for readers to apply the concepts they learned. These reviewers believed that the book would benefit from incorporating more interactive elements to enhance the overall learning experience.

Furthermore, a number of readers found the book to be overly technical, with an abundance of jargon and technical terminology. They suggested that the author could have included more real-world examples and simplified explanations to cater to a wider audience.

In conclusion, Susan Sharpless Smith's "Web-Based Instruction" has received a mix of reviews from readers. While some appreciated its informative content, clear writing style, and organization, others were disappointed by its lack of depth, outdated information, lack of interactivity, and technical language. The book may be suitable for those looking for an introductory guide to web-based instruction, but those seeking advanced insights or a more engaging learning experience may find it lacking.

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