Kerry Rice

A Comprehensive Look at Distance Education in the K–12 Context

Abstract This review provides a comprehensive examination of the literature surrounding the current state of K-12 distance education. The growth in K–12 distance education follows in the footsteps of expanded learning opportunities at all levels of public education and training in corporate environments. Implementation has been accomplished with a limited research base, often drawing from studies in adult distance education and policies adapted from traditional learning environments. This review of literature provides an overview of the field of distance education with a focus on the research conducted in K–12 distance education environments.

Online Health-Related Fitness Courses: A Wolf in Sheep's Clothing or a Solution to Some Common Problems?

JOPERD • Volume 79 No. 1 • January 2008 A s technology’s presence increases in today’s society, the use of the Internet and distance education is also increasing. Online courses are a form of distance education that has the potential to reach unengaged youths or persons with different educational needs. The purpose of this article is to (1) discuss the growth of distance education and online courses, (2) delineate the pros and cons of online courses, (3) describe how online health-related fi tness (HRF) courses can be used in physical education, and (4) provide some suggestions for developing, implementing, and evaluating online HRF courses. The intent of the authors is to stimulate discussion about the potential benefi ts and challenges associated with using online HRF classes as a part of a high school or college physical education curriculum.