In recent years, faculty at most universities have been asked to develop distance learning courses and incorporate more technology into the traditional classroom setting. While what constitutes distance learning varies by institution much of the recent interest has revolved around on-line learning, also referred to as e-learning and web-based learning. On-line learning, just like classroom learning, requires good content, must engage students, must provide substance, must enhance learning and must be interactive in nature (Blotzer, 2000b). Therefore, technology cannot replace the faculty member because it is the faculty member who implements the learning strategies and guides the learning process (Asirvatham, 2000). The question becomes how can the faculty member incorporate technology so that it helps with content development, course design and delivery of education (Worley, 2000).
The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate how incorporating on-line technologies in your traditional classroom accounting courses can move the faculty member from a content provider to a developer of knowledge and skills, a coach if you will. Additionally, using this technology will free up class time that can be used to work on the development of professional judgment and research techniques through case analysis, student presentations/discussions and activities that provide students’ with a deeper understanding of the material. Using this technology in your traditional class will also help those students who desire to do web-courses in the future since they will be familiar with the technology and how to use it. Lastly, this type of experience will help prepare your students for the current business environment that expects employees who can function in an almost paperless environment.