| This dissertation examines the implementation of web conferencing technology in online graduate courses within management, engineering, and computer science programs. Though the spread of learning management systems over the past two decades has been dramatic, the use of web conferencing technologies has curiously lagged. The real-time "synchronous" communication features of this technology, which would seemingly compliment the predominantly time-independent, or time-delayed "asynchronous" tools such as email and discussion boards, have been under-utilized. This under-utilization represents a lost opportunity in terms of engaging students and improving their online learning experience. In a cross-case analysis involving three universities, this study investigates how and why this technology is implemented in some classes more than others. The slow implementation pattern was found to be attributable to characteristics of the technology itself, though teaching practices, student preferences, and course characteristics played strong roles. Organizational factors also played a role in the speed that the technology was deployed. |
