"VIRTUAL VOYAGES": INTRODUCING SCIENCE WITH REAL-WORLD DATA IN A LARGE CLASSROOM
The computer assignments have been an effective learning tool in my introductory oceanography course. With all answers submitted online and scoring received online, there is no paperwork to turn in or hand back. After an initial development stage, less time is required to maintain and update the site. Student responses have been very positive. They find the online technique easy to do; they feel the technology makes learning more interesting and fun; and they like the interactivity and real-world data, which make them feel that they are doing research. In fall 2000, the majority of students (56%) listed the voyages as the most useful element of the course, and only 3% listed the computer work as a problem. The class meets during standard times, but this distance learning teaching tool provides an effective supplement to the classroom. The voyages direct students out-of-class learning by providing real-world data for exploration prior to class and a framework for learning about concepts and other applications in class. I get better prepared students and the students get a more enjoyable way to keep up with the course material.