Internet-classroom: e-learning in Russia

Abstract

Advanced computer technologies are used more and more actively by modern pedagogical community. E-learning courses give students wide area for researching and creative work according to their own curriculum. Advantages of E-learning are evident for Russia with its vast spaces. Russian education turned its attention to the computer based learning not long ago. It was quite predictable, that science teachers were more enthusiastic about computer technologies than others. Since April 2002 Moscow center of Internet education develops E-learning project “Internet-classroom”. 157 students from distant regions of Russia (Altai, Karelia, Toliatty) participate in testing the system. They study chemistry, astronomy, physics, biology and geography. Software package, designed especially for the project, in combination with original methodic decisions forms accomplished educational environment, almost unique in Russian education. The project “Internet-classroom”, though it continues for less than one year, presents great perspective of E-learning in Russia.