Using the Web in the classroom

Providing additional channels for intraclass communication, offering a much easier and convenient way in which to access information and materials traditionally available in academic libraries, and allowing students to engage in primary (not necessarily quantitative) research or active learning are the three major interrelated yet distinct ways in which to use the Web in the undergraduate classroom. The first two ways are relevant for any course on any topic; employing the Web as a tool for gathering mostly textual information is particularly promising for many courses in the social sciences. For all three uses of the Web, specific advice for instructors as to available sources and modes of use is given. Didactic and technical challenges are discussed in the context of the college at large and of support and resources provided by computer services and the library. Special consideration is given to the situation at large public urban institutions of higher learning.