An introduction to distance education : Understanding teaching and learning in a new era Edited by M.F. Cleveland-Innes and D.R. Garrison An Introduction to Distance Education is a comprehensive look at the field today, outlining current theories, practices and goals. The book reviews the influence of past distance education theory and practice, along with current changes. It outlines the practical skills and information that are essential to effective distance education design, delivery and navigation. This volume brings together seminal contributors who have and who are currently researching and shaping our understanding and practice of distance education. A discussion of past and present practices in higher and distance education leads to an understanding of accessible education and the appropriate use of Web 2.0 technology. Utilizing a student-guided approach, each chapter offers pedagogical features to engage and support the teaching and learning process: • Questions for reflection, review and discussion: students can use these questions as triggers for further thoughts related to the topic. Instructors can use these questions for classroom and online discussion • Key quotations: strategically placed throughout the text, these points act as a springboard for further reflection and classroom discussion • Concept definitions: central concepts discussed in the text are defined for students at the end of each chapter. M. F. Cleveland-Innes is a faculty member and program director in the Center for Distance Education at Athabasca University in Alberta, Canada. D. R. Garrison is the Director of the Teaching and Learning centre and a professor in the Faculty of Education at the University of Calgary.