|
The process of education is no longer limited to the confines of the
classroom or local geography and increasingly
students are anxious to combine elements of a traditional university
education with electronically delivered curriculum and international
travel.
We believe
that this trend will continue to grow and that it is our responsibility to
develop educational structures and methods which will combine the
availability of world-wide resources with an increased diversity of
international students, and flexibility of study.
Institutions
of higher education must exercise appropriate leadership and foresight
developed through depth of experience in the development of educational
structures and programs capable of meeting 21st century needs. Although
current educational practices have made important intellectual and cultural
contributions to society,
innovative educational methods and practices will be required to meet not
only future needs, but needs which remain unmet today.
AIBS
understands that education must harmonize with the personal and professional
lives of students. This harmony is important because it ensures
the
student’s educational experience will be of lasting benefit as a source
for personal growth, professional renewal, and career advancement.
For the
educational experience to be academically and practically sound, it must
form a relationship with the student’s professional growth and
responsibilities.
The function of the teacher in the next century will change dramatically
from a transmitter of factual information to a facilitator of the learning
environment. The function of the teacher in the future will be one that
stimulates students to take hold of their own education by being actively
involved in the learning environment. Active participation instead of being
a passive learner will be the prime focus. Teachers will work with the
student to identify the most optimum learning style for that student.
Teachers will become a partner along with the student. Teachers will be
learners along with their students.
The use of
electronic media and information will be prime tools in transforming the
teaching experience into the learning experience.
AIBS believes that the use of the Internet and the World Wide Web represents
the most revolutionary changing environment of the educational community.
The opportunities that are available on the Net are practically limitless.
On-line courses, tutoring via e-mail and real time conferencing, cooperative
group learning, teacher in-service training, e-mail communication,
information sharing and management, and peer tutoring are only the beginning
of utilizing the Internet's boundless resources within the educational
community.
Prof. Marshall G. Hall
Head of School
AIBS Online
Email the author
|
