Publication Type: Conference Paper/Unpublished Manuscript
Review Method: Peer Reviewed
Abstract: Relational closeness in long-distance (LD) friendships holds important practical and theoretical interest. However, when defining and measuring relational closeness, scholars have overlooked the LD friendship. For example, Bersheid et al.’s (1989b) work based on interdependence emphasizes face-to-face interaction and disadvantages the LD friendship. This study asked 113 participants to define closeness generally and in LD friendships. Results illustrated that previous methods of conceptualizing and measuring closeness do not fully capture the nuances of closeness when face-to-face contact frequency is low. Suggestions for developing such a measure and implications for current conceptualizations of relational closeness are discussed.

Publication Type: Conference Paper/Unpublished Manuscript
Abstract: This paper argues that faculty willing to lead the technological transformation of higher education will need to establish self-directed communities of practice to create, share, and sustain knowledge about the effective use of technology in teaching. The transformation of our role as teachers and learners is imperative for the long-term relevance of our profession.

Publication Type: School Poster
Abstract: Objective:
• To identify PBL technologies suitable for long-distance health sciences education
• To discuss their features: advantages, disadvantages, and optimal applications
• To compare cost to functionality of various technologies
• To provide health professionals with a quick guide to best PBL technologies for distance learning
Methods:
PBL is used increasingly in distance learning environments. Student centered learning is part of the College’s mission. New ways of delivering content are needed.
The poster focuses on literature search, product reviews, and user feedback to design and diagram the advantages/disadvantages of PBL tools, compare desired features with product functionality, and show alignment of technological options with pedagogical needs. Appropriateness of synchronous vs asynchronous delivery in relation to objectives, outcomes, and logistical issues will be included.

Publication Type: School Poster
Abstract: The Ohio State University College of Pharmacy (COP) accepted the first students into its distance education Non-Traditional Doctor of Pharmacy (NTPD) program in 2001. Presently, 177 students have matriculated in the program and 52 have graduated. The importance of post-baccalaureate programs to advance knowledge and skills of practicing pharmacist-students and improve medication therapy management in the community has been recognized. Additionally, distance education initiatives may positively influence campus-based programs. At our institution, incorporation of educational technology into the pharmacy curricula has increased significantly since the NTPD program’s inception. Currently, most COP courses utilize a web-based course management system (CMS) to communicate with students, provide course materials to supplement or replace course packets, administer electronic quizzes or exams, and perform course/instructor evaluations. Classroom lectures are “captured” using software which allows content to be recorded and posted on the CMS for later use or review by students. Lecture capture has also been used to pre-record course content, allowing more interaction and discussion during classroom time and/or reducing scheduling difficulties. To accommodate real-time faculty-student and student-student interactions, NTPD courses utilize an online classroom to review problem-based learning exercises and case discussions. This virtual classroom now also supports continuing education, training programs, and outreach activities for the COP. Educational technology applications continue to expand; developing innovations include using the CMS to simulate electronic patient record-keeping, increase on-time access to drug information resources, and facilitate computer-mediated classroom discussions. Our experience demonstrates successful transfer of distance education methodologies into a variety of COP programs.

Publication Type: Session Presentation
Abstract: Presenters will examine current and upcoming distance-learning technologies, including selected applications of technology useable within a traditional classroom to expand students’ access to real-time language and culture. Standards for assessing the use of technology in language learning will be discussed. Input from the audience will be solicited and discussed.