-Draft- AU CIDE eLearning as a Success Story for University Mobility in Asia and the Pacific1 Prof.Dr. Srisakdi Charmonman2 Chairman at the Board and CEO, College of Internet Distance Education and Dr. Santihorn Bunchua3 ICT Program Director, College of Internet Distance Education Assumption University of Thailand [email protected] , [email protected]
Abstract Virtual education or eLearning provides virtual mobility in the sense that any student may take any course anywhere in the world, i.e. by making virtual travel through the Internet. In the US, 90% of large universities (with more 15,000 students) are offering eLearning. It was said that by the year 2020, eLearning will be the mainstream and classroom learning the supporting part. Countries in the world are offering or in the process of offering eLearning. Therefore, it is desirable to study the success and failure of eLearning to use as guidelines in developing and running of eLearning programs. This paper presents the College of Internet Distance Education of Assumption University as a success story. Details are given on Master of Science Program in Management, Master of Science Program in Information and Communication Technology, Doctor of Philosophy Program in eLearning Methodology, and Certificate Program in SME Management. Discussion is also given concerning SCITplus which is the Learning, Content and Delivery Management System developed from Moodle at SCIT or Srisakdi Charmonman IT Center.
1. Introduction
Many universities in Thailand have started offering eLearning degree program either developed by themselves or through co-operations with Thai Cyber University. A success
1. An Invited Paper for Panel Discussion on “UMAP Online Course”, at the Seminar on “University Mobility: Trends for Co-ordination”, Organized by University Mobility in Asia and the Pacific, Siam City Hotel, Bangkok, Thailand, 4-6 October 2007. 2. Board Chairman and CEO of the College of Internet Distance Education of Assumption University of Thailand, President of the Computer Association of Thailand under the Royal Patronage of HM the King, President of Thailand Chapter of the ACM, President of Thailand Chapter of the Computer Society of the IEEE, and President of South East Asia Computer Confederation. 3. ICT Program Director of the College of Internet Distance Education of Assumption University of Thailand, Treasurer of the Computer Association of Thailand under the Royal Patronage of HM the King, and Vice President of the Association of Thai Internet Industry.
1 story is at the College of Internet Distance Education of Assumption University, which is the first university in Thailand to offer a complete university degree program and the first university in the world to offer the Ph.D. program in eLearning Methodology. Many papers [1-69] have been written by the author on the topic of Information and Communication Technology and related areas. Prof. Srisakdi Charmonman’s proposal to establish the College of Internet Distance Education was approved by the Board of Trustees of Assumption University on April 25, 2002, with himself as the Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the College. He also wrote the first draft of the degree to legalize eLearning in Thailand which was later published in the Royal Gazette in October 2005. The College is managed more or less like a business in the sense that it is headed by the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) similar to a university president, assisted by the Chief Technology Officer (CTO) similar to the Vice President for Technology, the Chief Operating Officer (COO) similar to the Vice President for Administration, the Chief Academic Officer (CAO) similar to the Vice President for Academic Affairs, and so on so fourth. The College of Internet Distance Education was established to offer eLearning without the purpose of making profit. As a matter of fact, about 15 US$ million was invested to construct “Srisakdi Charmonman IT Center” with 12 floors and about 12,000 square meters as well as all the required IT and audio visual equipments, as shown in Figure 1 to house the College. In addition to being the first university in Thailand to offer complete eLearning degree programs, and the first university in the world to offer a Ph.D. program in eLearning Methodology, Assumption University is also the first university in Thailand to establish a college-level organization specifically to offer eLearning,
Figure 1. Srisakdi Charmonman Figure 2. Searching Google for IT Center “PhD eLearning Methodology”
The College uses eBusiness for eLearning in the sense that all the processes are done thru the Internet, including eAdvertising of the eLearning programs, eApplication where students submit their applications thru the Internet, eInterview in which the admission officers interview the applicants thru the Internet, eAdmission in which the announcements that the students have been admitted into the programs are made thru the Internet, eRegistration where
2 students register for the courses thru the Internet, eAttendance where students listen to or view the lectures thru the Internet, eAssignment where students get the assignment and submit their work thru the Internet, eExamination in which students take the examinations thru the Internet, eGrading in which the professors post the grades and students read the grades thru the Internet, and finally eGraduation in which students may join the graduation ceremony thru the Internet. Anyone anywhere in the world wishing to study for Ph.D. in eLearning Methodology can search for “Ph.D. eLearning Methodology” from Google and would get the result as shown in Figure 2, with the first five entries about Assumption University. Clicking on the entry “Application Form for Ph.D. eLearning Methodology” would give the application form as shown in Figure 3, and the research proposal guideline as shown in Figure 4. There have been applications from 20 countries. As of October 2007, the College of Internet Distance Education of Assumption University offers three complete eLearning degree programs. They are Master of Science in Management, Master of Science in Information and Communication Technology, and Ph.D. in eLearning Methodology. The College also offers Certificate Program for SME. Altogether, there are about 1,500 students enrolled at the College.
Figure 3. Application Form Figure 4. Research Proposal Guideline for Ph.D. in eLearning Methodology for Ph.D. in eLearning Methodology
2. Master of Science Program in Management
There are over 300 students in the Master of Science in Management Program. Many students are air hostesses who study at the airports and take examination at the Thai Embassies in various countries. The program requires 36 credits or 12 courses. There are 5 majors with 18 credits of common core courses and 15 credits of major elective courses plus a 3-credit project. All courseware have been developed.
2.1 Core Courses The 5 core courses are as follows. MS6501 Organization Management MS6502 Marketing Management MS6503 Financial Management
3 MS6504 Operations Research MS6505 Research Methods MS6506 Strategic Management
2.2 Major Elective Courses In each major, a student must take 15 credits or 5 major elective courses. 2.2.1 Small Medium Enterprises Management Major MS6511 SME and New Venture Management MS6512 Venture Capital for Entrepreneurs MS6513 Managing Growing Enterprises MS6514 Managing the New Product Development Process and Innovation MS6515 Advanced Topics in Entrepreneurship MS6516 SME Venture Plan MS6517 Seminar in SME Management 2.2.2 Human Resource Management Major Elective Courses MS6521 Human Resource Management MS6522 Leadership and Interpersonal Dynam MS6523 Organization Design and Behavior MS6524 Motivation and Productivity MS6525 Employee Development and Training MS6526 Negotiation MS6527 Advanced Topics in Human Resource Management MS6528 Seminar in HRM Management 2.2.3 Technology Management Major Elective Courses MS6531 Technology Entrepreneurship MS6532 Operations & Technology Management MS6533 Marketing of High Technology MS6534 Information Communication Technology Management MS6535 Strategic Management of Technology and Innovation MS6536 Advanced Topics in Technology Management MS6537 Seminar in Technology Management 2.2.4 Strategic Marketing Management Major Elective Courses MS6541 Consumer Behavior MS6542 Pricing Strategies MS6543 Product and Brand Management MS6544 Integrated Marketing Communication MS6546 Marketing Strategy MS6547 Customer Relationship Management MS6548 Advanced Topics in Strategic Marketing Management MS6549 Seminar in Strategic Marketing Management 2.2.5 Business Management Major Elective Courses MS6511 SME and New Venture Management MS6512 Venture Capital for Entrepreneurs MS6513 Managing Growing Enterprises MS6514 Managing the New Product Development Process and Innovation MS6515 Advanced Topics in Entrepreneurship
4 MS6516 SME Venture Plan MS6517 Seminar in SME Management
3. Master of Science Program in Information and Communication Technology
There are over 100 students in the Master of Science in Information and Communication Technology Program with 4 majors, namely Information Technology Major, Computer Communications and Network Major, Computer Graphics and Animation Major, Technology Management Major.
3.1 Core Courses The 3 core courses are as follows. ICT 6000 Computer System Organization ICT 6001 Information System Development ICT 6002 Internet Technologies
3.2 Major Course Courses In each major, a student must take 9 credits or 3 major required courses, plus 5 elective courses and a 3-credit project. Courseware for all the courses have been completed. 3.2.1 Information Technology Major ICT 6100 Database Design and Management ICT 6101 Mobile and Wireless Technology ICT 6200 Computer Communication Network 3.2.2 Computer Communications and Network Major ICT 6200 Computer Communication Network ICT 6201 Mobile and Wireless Technology ICT 6203 Computer and Network Security 3.2.3 Computer Graphics and Animation Major ICT 6300 Computer Graphics ICT 6302 Internet Multimedia ICT 6304 3D Modeling 3.2.4 Technology Management Major ICT 6400 Management Information System ICT 6401 Information Technology Management ICT 6404 Enterprise Database System
4. Doctor of Philosophy Program in eLearning Methodology
As of October 2007, the Doctor of Philosophy Program in eLearning Methodology is the only such program in the world.
5 4.1 Graduation Requirements Assumption University confers the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in eLearning Methodology upon students who meet all the requirements as follows: 1. Pass the qualifying examination. 2. Pass the dissertation proposal defense and dissertation final defense. 3. Pass English language test such as TOEFL score of at least 550 PBT/213 CBT or IELTS score of 6.5 or other English tests that are of equivalent standard. 4. Have the dissertation or a part of dissertation published of obtain an acceptance of publication in a journal which has the peer review. 5. Complete at least 48 credits approved for the dissertation. 6. Library and financial clearance with the University.
4.2 Nationalities of Ph.D. in eLearning Methodology Students Figure 5 is a pie chart reporting of nationalities of Ph.D. in eLearning Methodology students as recorded in September, 2007. At the second semester of 2007, the Ph.D. in eLearning Methodology program has four batches which included 12 nationalities: Thai, Iranian, Filipino, Australian, New Zealander, Canadian, Paraguayan, American, Vietnamese, Burmese, British and Romanian. Approximately 55 % of the students are Thai.
Ph.D. Students at CIDE, 2007
Thai Iranian Filipino Australian New Zealander Canadian Paraguayan American Vietnamese Myanmese British Romanian
Figure 5. Nationalities of Students at Ph.D. in eLearning Methodology, 2007
4.3 Nationalities of Ph.D. in eLearning Methodology Applicants Figure 6 is a pie chart reporting of nationalities of Ph.D. in eLearning Methodology applicants as recorded in September, 2007. Based on the database the applicants included 20 nationalities: Thai, Iranian, Filipino, Australian, New Zealander, Canadian, Paraguayan, American, Vietnamese, Burmese, British, Romanian, GermanChinese, Japanese, Kenyan, Srilankan Tamil, Pakistani, Sri Lankan and Gambian.Similar to the Nationality of Ph.D. students, approximately 56 % of applicants or the majority of applicants are Thai.
6 Ph.D. Applicants at CIDE
Thai Iranian Filipino Australian New Zealander Canadian Paraguayan American Vietnamese Myanmese British Romanian German Chinese Japanese Kenyan Srilankan tamil Pakistani Sri Lankan Gambian
Figure 6. Nationalities of Applicants at Ph.D. in eLearning Methodology, 2007
5. Certificate Program in SME Management
In addition to the 3 degree programs mentioned in Sections 2, 3, and 4 of this paper, the College of Internet Distance Education of Assumption University had entered into agreement with the Office of Small and Medium Enterprises Promotion (OSMEP) to develop a Certificate Program in SME Management. The program includes 12 courses in 4 phases with 3 courses in each phase. As of October 2007, there are over 1,000 students enrolled free of charge in course in Phase I and II. Courses in Phases III and IV will be completed by the end of 2007. The total number of potential students is over 2 millions.
5.1 Phase I SME101 Concepts of Starting SME Business SME102 Introduction to Marketing for SME SME103 Financial Management for SME
5.2 Phase II SME106 Sustainable Growth in SME Business SME108 Creativities and Innovations for SME SME109 Information Technology and eCommerce for SME
5.3 Phase III SME105 Production and Service Management for SME SME107 Analysis of Trends, Opportunities and Strategies for SME SME110 SME Business and Advanced Marketing
7 5.4 Phase IV SME104 Accounting and Budgeting for SME SME111 Risk Management and Internal Control for SME SME112 Business Plan for SME Business
6. Learning, Content and Delivery Management System
SCITplus is the eLearning solution developed by College of Internet Distance Education, Assumption University for its degree-based programs as well as non-degree programs (certificate- level, and training short courses). Current programs that are offered based on SCITplus include: Master of Science Program in ICT. A Part of Master of Science Program in Management. Ph.D. Program in eLearning Methodology. CIDE eTraining courses. SME Training (in collaboration of Office of SME Promotion). The SCITplus solution is composed of the following components. Learning Management System (LMS), based on Moodle. Learning Content and Delivery Management System.
6.1 SCITplus Learning Management System SCITplus is developed from Moodle, an open source course management system, as its LMS engine. It allows flexible and powerful user authentication and authorization based on roles, course management, activity tracking, activity and grade reporting, and other learning activities, such as assignments, forums, quizzes, chat, wiki, and etc. In addition, it incorporates basic content management features that allow fast and simple content authoring for instructors and administrators, such as label, text pages, and web pages.
Figure 7. The Main Web Page of SCITplus, Based on Moodle
Besides basic functionalities provided by the Moodle LMS engine, several features have been incorporated into the LMS based on the specific requirements of the learning programs. For the MS in ICT program, these additional features include:
8 Web Hosting Service: Offers free spaces for creating home pages of SCITplus users, as shown in Figure 8. ITplus Store: Provides materials for sales to SCITplus users. Examples include textbooks, computer software, lecture materials in CD/DVD, as shown in Figure 9. Registration System: Provides a registration system that is customized for the school’s registration process, as shown in Figure 10. Unofficial Transcript: Provides unofficial transcript based on the official registration and grade information from the school’s database, as shown in Figure 9. Examination Results: Provides a report for other examinations required by the curriculum, as shown in Figure 11. Class Evaluation: Provides a customized class evaluation questionnaire based on enrolled classes, as shown in Figure 12.
Figure 8. Web Hosting Service Figure 9. ITplus Store
Figure 9. Registration System Figure 10. Unofficial Transcript
Figure 11. Examination Results Figure 12. Class Evaluation
Additional modules are created to carry out other tasks, including creating various kinds of activity reports (that are not already provided by the Moodle engine), program application forms, entrance examination and interview registration and scheduling, and entrance examinations.
9 6.2 SCITplus Learning Content and Delivery Management System In SCITplus, learning content is produced by content experts with the support from the instructional designer, graphics designers, web designers, and programmers. Courseware is mainly streaming video-based content delivered through the Internet. The following delivery systems are designed and created for SCITplus. Power-V System: Combines the Windows Media-based lecture video with image-based content slides, plus easy to navigate topic index. Both video and slides are streamed from the content delivery server. The system is suitable for typical lectures and virtual classes, and is well-suited for Windows-based client machine, as shown in Figure13. Power-Fx System: Similar to Power-V but based on Flash technology. Video and slides are streamed from the content delivery server. Client machines from any platforms that support flash technology on the web can access it. The interface is more interactive than Power-V, as shown in Figure 14. Power-Fx Player System: Power-Fx Player is based on Power-Fx but with only one section forvideo. This layout is used mostly for computer software trainingcourses and other courses that are not well-suited to the split-section layout of Power-V and Power-Fx, as shown in Figure 15.
Figure 13. Power-V System Figure 14. Power-Fx System
Figure 15. Power-Fx Player System
10 7. Concluding Remarks
It is written on the wall that no country can avoid eLearning. There is no field of study in which eLearning has not been used. This paper presents the College of Internet Distance Education of Assumption University as a success story. Details are given on Master of Science Program in Management, Master of Science Program in Information and Communication Technology, Doctor of Philosophy Program in eLeaning Methodology, and Certificate Program in SME Management. Presented is also SCITplus which is the Learning, Content and Delivery Management System developed at SCIT or Srisakdi Charmonman IT Center. All parties concerned should promote eLearning for the benefits to themselves, to their organizations, to their countries, and to the world.
11 References. 1. Charmonman, S. “Computer and Information Technology”. United Nations Asian and Pacific Development Institute Seminar on Information for Development Planning. Pattaya, Thailand. January 1978. 2. Charmonman, S. “State of Computer Technology in Thailand in 1980”. Final Report of Unesco Regional Meeting of Computer Center Directors in Southeast Asia. Jakarta, Indonesia. October 20-24, 1980. 3. Charmonman, S. “Informatics for Development in Thailand”. ICID/Unesco Consultative Meeting. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. October 1982. 4. Charmonman, S. “Computer Hardware, Software and Peopleware: Selection and Maintenance for Library Applications”. Proceedings of the Sixth Congress of Southeast Asian Librarians. Singapore. 30 May - 3 June 1983. 5. Charmonman, S. “Computers for Education in Thailand”. Unesco-Asia Electronic Union Workshop in Computer-Assisted Instruction. Jakarta, Indonesia. October 1983. 6. Charmonman, S. “Computer Laboratories in Thailand and Their Needs”. Final Report to USAID. August 1984. 7. Charmonman, S. “The Merger of Informatic and Telecommunication: Development and Prospects for the Future”. Proceedings of the Joint Thai, IDRC, UNCTC, and IBI Asean Regional Seminar on Transborder Data Flow Impacts. 1987 Special Issue of ABAC Journal. 1987. 8. Charmonman, S. “Transborder Data Flows and Thailand”. Final Report of a Project Supported by IDRC. Published by United Nations Center on Transitional Corporations. 1987. 9. Charmonman, S. “Computer Educational Software in Thailand”. Unesco Asia and Pacific Seminar in Educational Software Development, Evaluation and Dissemination. Tokyo, Japan. 12-22 September 1988. 10. Charmonman, S. “Telecommunications in Thailand”. Presented to the Pacific Telecommunication Conference. Tokyo, Japan. October 1988. 11. Charmonman, S. and Pin-Ngem, O. “Reasoning under Dynamic Knowledge Base with Application to Traffic Routing”. Proceedings of the ‘93 Korea/Japan Joint Conference on Expert Systems, Seoul, Korea, February 1993. pp. 268-277. 12. Charmonman, S. and Chiraphadhakul, S. “Computer Human Resource Planning for a Developing Country”. Proceedings of the 1993 ACM SIGCPR Conference, St. Louis, Mo., USA, April 1993. ACM Press, pp.370-378. 13. Charmonman, S. and Bijaisoradat, N. A “Decision Support System for Nursing Care”. Pacific Conference on Information Systems, Taiwan, R.O.C., May 1993. 14. Charmonman, S. “The Internet and AUnet Proposal”. Submitted to and Approved by the Board of Trustees, Assumption University, Thailand. August 1993. 15. Charmonman, S. “Internet to be Compulsory at ABAC in 1994”. Ku-Kang Durakit (Business Competitions) Weekly Magazine, 11-17 October 1993, p35. 16. Charmonman, S. “Internet Computer Access in Thailand”. International Conference in Globalization of Computers and Communications. UNESCO, Bombay. 25-27 November 1993. 17. Charmonman, S. Network Formation in Thailand in Telecommunication in the Pacific Basin, edited by Eli Noam, et.el., Oxford University Press, 1994, pp.201-216. 18. Charmonman, S.; Anaraki, F.; and Nalwa-Sehgal, V. The ABCs of the Internet. Assumption University Press, 1994, 186 pp. 19. Charmonman, S. and Anaraki, F. “An Internet Project for 100,000 Users in Thailand”, Proceedings of INET’94, organized by the Internet Society, held in Prague, the Czech Republic, June 15-17, 1994, pp. 434.1 - 434.9.
12 20. Charmonman, S. “KSC: The First and Largest Commercial ISP in Thailand”. Invited paper presented to Asia Pacific Carrier & ISP Executive Forum, Phuket, Thailand. March 10-11, 1999. 21. Charmonman, S. “Internet Market Situation in Thailand”. Invited paper presented to the Workshop on Internet Policy and E-Commerce organized by Asia-Pacific Telecommunity, Hua Hin, May 11-13, 1999. 22. Charmonman, S. and Rear Admiral Sribhadung P. “Internet Industry in Thailand 1999”. Invited paper presented at the 1st International Asia-Pacific Telecommuni-cations Forum, 28-29th Oct. 1999, ETRI, Taejon, Korea. 23. Charmonman, S. and Chorpothong, S. “E-Learning for Human Resource Development”, a paper presented to Thai Telephone and Telecommunications Public Co., Ltd. Annual Seminar at HR Training Center of TT&T, Ayutthaya Province. December 8, 2000. 24. Charmonman, S. and Chorpothong, S. “Internet for Searching of Intellectual Property Information”, a paper presented to the Seminar “Internet and Intellectual Property”, organized by Assumption University and Thailand Internet Association. March 5, 2001. 25. Charmonman, S. and Chorpothong, S. “E-Education”, a paper presented to the Seminar “Education Technology in the Future”, organized by King Mongkut's University of Technology Thonburi. March 9, 2001. 26. Charmonman, S. and Chorpothong, S. “E-Commerce Law”, a paper presented to “Assistant Judges Training Program” organized by the Judicial Training Institute. March 30, 2001. 27. Charmonman, S. and Chorpothong, S “Mobile Internet”, a paper presented to “CITE 2001” organized by NCC Management and Development Co., Ltd. at Queen Sirikit’s National Convention Center, Thailand. March 30, 2001. 28. Charmonman, S. and Chorpothong, S. “Asian Family Adjustment to Information Technology”. Invited Paper present to “Asian Youth Forum” organized by the Student Union of Assumption University in co-operation with UNESCO at Assumption University Bangna Campus on May 22, 2001. 29. Charmonman, S. and Chorpothong, S. “Internet Security Solution for E-Business” Panel discussion organized by Asia Pacific Technology Co., Ltd. at Sofitel Hotel. June 28, 2001. 30. Charmonman, S. and Chorpothong, S. “Copyright Violation in E-Commerce”, Micro Computer Magazine, Volume 19, No. 193, August 2001. 31. Charmonman, S. and Chorpothong, S. “Electronic Communication: An Evolving Tool in Teaching”. Invited paper presented to “International Perspectives on Learning Skills Development” at the Hall of Fame, Assumption University, September 8, 2001. 32. Charmonman, S. and Chorpothong, S. “Intellectual Property Rights and the Internet”, Training Program organized by the Law Society of Thailand, October 28, 2001. 33. Charmonman, S. and Chorpothong, S. “Intellectual Property Rights and the Internet”, Training Program Batch 1 organized by the Bar Society of Thailand, October 28, 2001. 34. Charmonman, S. and Chorpothong, S. “Graduate Study in the Future”, a paper presented to seminar in “Graduate School Efficiency in Thailand for the Next Ten years”, organized by Rangsit University, November 15, 2001. 35. Charmonman, S. and Chorpothong, S. “E-Learning as a Revolution in Education”, St. John University. December 12, 2001. 36. Charmonman, S. and Chorpothong, S. “E-Learning as a Revolution in Education”, St. John University. December 12, 2001. 37. Charmonman, S. and Chorpothong, S. “IT Jobs in the Digital Economy”, Thammasat University and Standard Chartered Nakornthon Bank, Thammasat University. January 14, 2002. 38. Chorpothong, N. and Charmonman, S. “University Curricula for IT Related Human Resource Development”. Invited paper presented to “Workshop on e-ASEAN Implementation”. Assumption University. March 5, 2002. 39. Charmonman, S and Chorpothong, S. “Computer Network and Educational Reform”, a paper presented to the “Graduate School Seminar”, organized by Sukhothai Thammathirat University, April 6, 2002
13 40. Chorpothong, N. and Charmonman, S. “IT and E-Learning in Thailand.” Invited paper presented to IT Management Program, 2002, “e-Learning Utilization in Southeast Asia” organized by the Center of the International Cooperation for Computerization. Tokyo, Japan, July 22-27, 2002. 41. Chorpothong, N. and Charmonman, S. “Information Technology” Invited paper presented to “R & D in Hospital and Future Trends of Information Technology (in Management Perspectives)” at the Hotel Dining Hall, Assumption University Bang Na Campus on May 21, 2003. 42. Charmonman, S. and Chorpothong, N. “IT in University Registrar Office” Invited paper presented to the Seminar on “MIS in University Registrar Offices”. Lotus Hotel, Chiang Mai, Thailand. 25 March 2004. 43. Charmonman S. and Chorpothong, N. Accreditation of eLearning Degree. Proceedings of the International Conference on eLearning for Knowledge-based Society. Bangkok, Thailand. August 4-5, 2004. Pp. 235-241. 44. Chorpothong, N. and Charmonman S. An eLearning Project for 100,000 Students per Year in Thailand. Proceedings of the International Conference on eLearning for Knowledge-based Society. Bangkok, Thailand. August 4-5, 2004. Pp. 111-118. 45. Charmonman, S. Cross-accreditation of eLearning Degree. Presented to the Inaugural TELMIN-e- ABC Meeting, Shangri-La Hotel, Thailand. August 5, 2004. 46. Charmonman S. Will eLearning Swing Up or Down. Invited Luncheon Talk at the Second International Conference on eLearning for Knowledge-based Society. Bangkok, Thailand. August 4-7, 2005. 47. Charmonman, S. University-Level eLearning in ASEAN. Proceedings of the Second International Conference on eLearning for Knowledge-based Society. Bangkok, Thailand. August 4-7, 2005. Pp. 11.1-11.5. 48. Charmonman, S. "Leadership Reflection in ICT in Education in Asia". Keynote Address presented to Digital Learning Asia 2006, organized by the Ministry of Information and Communication Technology and the Ministry of Education of Thailand, SEAMEO, and SIPA, at Rama Garden Hotel and Resort, Bangkok, Thailand. April 27, 2006. 49. Charmonman, S. “Success Factors in Cyber Education”. Invited to be Guest Speaker in Session presented to “Digital Learning Asia 2006”, organized by Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organization (SEAMEO), at Rama Garden Hotel and Resort, Bangkok, Thailand. April 28, 2006. 50. Charmonman, S. “Autonomous Systems and IP in Thai Universities”. A paper for the Panel Discussion on "Thailand IPv6 Status, Deployment, Applications, and Policy", at Thailand IPv6 Summit, Sofitel Central Plaza Hotel, Bangkok, Thailand, May 4, 2006. 51. Charmonman, S. "What Thailand Should Do to Promote Knowledge Economy?". A paper for the Session chaired by S. Charmonman on "Information Technology in Japan and Lessions for Thailand". Organized by the Office of National Economic and Social Development Board of Thailand and the World Bank, Four Seasons Hotel, Bangkok, Thailand, May 19, 2006. 52. Charmonman, S. “Assumption University is the Leader of eLearning in Thailand in the Year 2006”. Invited to be Guest Speaker in Session to presented to “Annual Faculty Seminar 2006", Assumption University at Assumption University Bangna Campus, May 22, 2006. 53. Charmonman, S. "University-Level eLearning in ASEAN and Thailand". Invited paper presented to Euro-Southeast Asia 2006 Forum on Information Society-EUSAEA2006, Shangri-La Hotel & Convention Center, Singapore. June 20, 2006. 54. Charmonman, S. and Chorpothong, N. "To Develop or Not to Develop New Courseware for University-Level eLearning". Keynote Address, Proceedings of the Third International Conference on eLearning for Knowledge-Based Society (Special Issue of IJCIM, Volume 14, No. SP1), organized by the Ministry of Information and Communication Technology, at IMPACT Muaung Thong Thani, Thailand. August 3, 2006. 55. Charmonman, S. "Trends and Issues in Open and Distance Learning". An Invited Paper for the 9th SEAMOLEC Governing Board Meeting, Hanoi, Vietnam. September 13, 2006. 56. Charmonman, S. "Open and Distance Learning Policy". Keynote Address presented to the International Seminar on “Policies and Technologies in ODL: Issues and Implementation”, Hanoi, Vietnam. September 14, 2006. 57. Charmonman, S. "Customizing eLearning to Local Realities". Invited Paper presented to the “Asia- Europe Colloquy on University Cooperation” with the theme “e-Learning for Higher Education: Challenges and Opportunities”, Seoul, Korea. September 24-28, 2006.
14 58. Charmonman, S. "Elearning and Human Resource Development". Position Paper for the Panel Discussion on “Elearning: Towards a Learning Society”, World Teacher Conference, Impact Muang Thong Thani, Bangkok, Thailand. October 6, 2006. 59. Charmonman, S. "Development of University-Level e-Learning Organizations". Paper presented to “Academic Doctoral Seminar 2006”, College of Internet Distance Education, Assumption University, Bangna Campus. October 28, 2006. 60. Charmonman, S. "The eBusiness of eLearning". Invited Paper for the Fifth International Conference on e-Business (NCEB 2006) with the theme of “Global e-Business: Best Practice”, Asia Hotel, Bangkok, Thailand. November 2-3, 2006. 61. Charmonman, S. "eLearning to Enhance the Quality of Higher Education". Position Paper for the Panel Discussion on “Technological Strategies to Enhance Quality in Higher Education”, International Conference on Educational Leadership, organized by Assumption University, University Partners for Academic Leadership, Stockholm University and University of Wollongong, at Assumption University, Bangkok, Thailand. November 24-25, 2006. 62. Charmonman, S. "Legal Aspects of eLearning". Keynote Address at the International Conference on “e- Learning: Learning Theories vs Technologies?” at Ramkhamhaeng University, Bangkok, Thailand. December 14-16, 2006. 63. Charmonman, S. "Back to the Basic of Computer and Internet Security". Invited Paper presented to Bangkok Security Summit 2007, Shangri-La Hotel, Bangkok, Thailand. March 22, 2007. 64. Charmonman, S. "eLearning for Religious Communities". Invited Paper presented to BISCOM VI, Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conference, “Converging Communication for Ministry in Asia”, Assumption University of Thailand, Bangkok, Thailand. May 28-June 2, 2007. 65. Charmonman, S. "eLearning: The Big Picture". Keynote address, Training for Executives of Hanoi Open University “eLearning Methodology Process and Management Training”, Srisakdi Charmonman IT Center, Assumption University Bangna Campus, June 4-8, 2007. 66. Charmonman, S. "eResearch on eLearning". Invited Paper Presented to Faculty Members and Ph.D. Students from Naresuan University at Srisakdi Charmonman IT Center, Assumption University Bangna Campus. July 6, 2007. 67. Charmonman, S. “Smart Cards for e-Commerce”. A position paper for the panel discussion on "Logical/ Online Security Key Driver to e-Commerce”. Organized by CardEx Asia 2007 at Queen Sirikit National Convention Center. July 11, 2007. 68. Charmonman, S. “Business-Minded CIO Leading Implementation”. Invited paper presented to the Second Annual Asia IT Congress, organized by Marcus Evans Conference Organization, Queen Sirikit National Convention Center, Bangkok Thailand, September 3-4, 2007. 69. Charmonman, S. “Thailand and the Emerging Digital Environment”. Invited paper presented to Thailand’s Online Marketing Outlook, Assumption University Campus, September 14, 2007.
15 Prof.Dr.Srisakdi Charmonman Professor Dr.Srisakdi Charmonman has extensive and well-rounded experience in education, business, government, and learned societies. In education, he is the first Thai national to earn a Ph.D. in computer-related area and that was from Georgia Institute of Technology in the US in 1964. Then he became Assistant Professor of Computer Science at McMaster University in Canada, Associate Professor of Computing Science at the University of Alberta-Edmonton in Canada, Director of Graduate Studies in Computer Science at the University of Missouri-Columbia in the US, Full Professor of Computer Science at the State University of New York at Brockport in the US, Professor of Applied Statistics and President of the Staff Association at the National Institute of Development Administration (NIDA) in Thailand, Professor of Computer Engineering and President of the Faculty Council at King Mongkut’s Institute of Technology Ladkrabang in Thailand, and Professor of Computer Engineering, Chairman of the Boards of the computer- related Ph.D. and MS programs, Founder and Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the College of Internet Distance Education (www.eLearning.au.edu), and Founder and Chairman of ABAC Poll (www.abacpoll.com) Research Center of Assumption University of Thailand. Prof.Srisakdi Charmonman has over 1,000 publications, lectured in more than 30 countries and served as Director of Grants from many organizations such as the Canadian National Research Council, the US National Science Foundation (NSF), the NSF- CBMS (Conference Board of Mathematical Sciences), IDRC (International Development Research Centre), UNCTC (United Nations Center for Transnational Corporation), UNESCO, Ford Foundation, Asia Foundation, etc. In business, Prof.Srisakdi Charmonman was Chairman of Computer Professional Services Co., Ltd. providing consulting services to many organizations such as BAHINT (Booze, Allen and Hamilton International) in the Metropolitan Waterworks Authority project, and Siam Commercial Bank in the project to computerize the bank for the first time. He was Chairman of ASK Consulting Group providing consulting services to companies with loan from Bangkok Bank such as Thai Garment Industry. He was Founder and Chairman of KSC which was the first and largest ISP (Internet Service Provider) in Thailand. He is the Chairman of the Charmingmall Group including Charmingmall Co., Ltd. and ABAC-KSC Internet Education Co., Ltd. KSC was once valued at one billion US$ but could not get that price because the DOT Com business collapsed worldwide. In government, Prof. Srisakdi Charmonman was one of the few highest-ranking civil servants, i.e. C11 (the same rank as the highest-ranking Permanent Secretary in any Ministry, the same rank as Field Marshal in the armed forces, one rank higher than the Provincial Governors) and stayed in that rank for 10 years (longer than most other civil servants). He
16 was Chairman of the Computer Working Group at the Office of the Prime Minister, Chairman of the Committee to Use the Internet to Display Traffic Conditions at the Office of the Prime Minister, Member of the University Civil Service Commission chaired by the Prime Minister, IT Expert in the Committee to Integrate and Revolutionize the National Records chaired by the Prime Minister, Deputy Chairman of the Extraordinary Committee on Copyrights of the House of Representatives, Chairman of five Subcommittees on National Professional Standards at the Ministry of Labor, Director of eCommerce Pilot Project and Chairman of the Committee on Specifications of eRegistration Project at the Ministry of Commerce, Expert Member of the National Copyright Committee, Chairman of the Subcommittee on Software Copyright in the National Copyright Committee, President of the Club of the Associate Judges of the Central Intellectual Properties and International Trade Court, etc. In learned societies, Prof.Dr.Srisakdi Charmonman was a Founding Member of the Special Interest Group of University Computer Centers of the ACM (Association for Computing Machinery) in 1962, Vice President and Seminar Chairman of the Rochester Chapter of the ACM, Founder and President of Thailand Chapter of the ACM, Founder and President of Thailand Joint Chapter of the Computer Society and the Engineering Management Society of the IEEE (Institute of Electronic and Electrical Engineers), Founder and President of Thailand Chapter of ISOC (Internet Society), Founder and President of the Thai Internet Association, Founder and President of ATII (Association of Thai Internet Industry), Founder and President of Asia-Pacific eLearning Association, President of the Computer Association of Thailand under the Royal Patronage of HM the King 2002-2004 and 2006-2008. He was also elected one of the 5 Directors of APNIC (Asia-Pacific Network Information Center), one of the 15 members of the Board of Trustees of ISOC, and one of the 10 members of the Board of Trustees of IFIP (International Federation for Information Processing). Prof.Dr.Srisakdi Charmonman was named Asian Computer Man of the Year 1981 and appeared on the front cover of Computer-Asia magazine published in Hong Kong. He was named Father of the Internet in Thailand by Bangkok Post and several other publications. He was named Man of the Year in 1996 and 1997 by GM Magazine, and Person of the Year 2004 by EconNews (Vol. 15, No. 449, September 2004), Man of the Year 2004 by the American Biographical Institute based on his outstanding accomplishments to date and the noble example he has set for his peers and entire community. On 7 June 2006, the Illuminated Diploma of Honour was given to him by the International Biographical Centre of Cambridge in England in recognition of outstanding achievements as the Father of Thai E- Learning. On 17 July 2006, the Meritorious Decoration was given to him by The International Biographical Centre of Cambridge in England for an Outstanding Contribution as the Father of Thai E-Learning. Fellow of the Royal Institution of Great Britain, with certificate signed by HRH the Duke of Kent, cousin of the Queen of UK.
Assumption University of Thailand honored Prof.Dr.Srisakdi Charmonman by constructing a 15 US$ million, 12-floor and 12,000 square-meter building with more than 1,000 computers, graciously opened by HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn in August 2004 to be one of the best IT centers in the world. The building was named “Srisakdi Charmonman IT Center (www.scBuilding.info)” and declared “Center of Excellence in IT Education” by the Ministry of Information and Communications Technology of Thailand. More information at
17