Definitions Internet-Based Distance Education

1.     Internet -  is not a single, clearly defined entity, but a meta-network of interconnected networks that share a common language, TCP-IP (transmission control protocol/Internet protocol).
2.     Protocol - is an electronic language that computers use to communicate with one another and exchange data.
3.     Tier 1: Backbone Networks and Internet Exchange Points – is the essential framework that provides a worldwide configuration of extremely high-bandwidth networks.
4.     Tier 2: Regional Networks - operate backbones on a smaller scale, in the United States typically within a state or among adjacent states, connecting to one or more national or international backbones.
5.     Tier 3: Internet Service Providers - is perhaps the most important component for distance educators. The individual Internet service providers (ISPs) are connected to regional networks and provide dial-up, or direct, high-speed access to the Internet at the local level.
6.      Tier 4: Organizational and Home Networks - are the local area networks that interconnect computers within an organization, such as a school, college, government agency, or company, and provide Internet access to individuals within those entities.
7.     Blogging - Web logging, or blogging, is a form of online reporting and journaling that gives anyone an opportunity to publish on the Internet.
8.     Wikis - is an online writing space designed to be created and edited by groups of persons.
9.     Podcasting - derived from the Apple product iPod and the term “broadcasting, “is the process of recording and storing audio and/or video content on the Internet for downloading and playback using iPods, MP3 players, computers, and other electronic gear that plays back audio and/or video files.
10.                        Student-centered learning - strongly promotes active learning, collaboration, mastery of course material, and student control over the learning process.