Trial results from a custom distance learning system based on hybridization of CD-ROM, Web, and Active-X component technology

The paper provides results from the first trial of the implementation of a distance learning system developed by the authors. A short instructional lesson was delivered to twenty-eight geographically dispersed students through a variety of connection speeds ranging from dial-up 56 Kbs to dedicated TI 1.45 Megabit connection. The system strives to provide the same media delivery capabilities available in a traditional classroom by integrating CD-ROM, Web, and Active-X technologies. Using embedded ActiveX objects within a Macromedia Director shell, the system renders Web content within the Director interface, interfaces with ASP databases, delivers MPEG-I full-screen full-motion video on demand, automatically transcribes lectures, and multicast live video. The system provides mechanisms for homework, tests, live lectures, video on demand lectures, and software demos. Macromedia Director is used as the anchor application, Macromedia Multiuser Server for TCP/IP calls, Microsoft Media Services for live video streaming, Microsoft´s Web rendering Active-X component for Web access, and Microsoft´s NetMeeting Active-X component for application sharing