Distance Learning

Distance Learning Has Evolved in How We Learn In Today's Society!

I think distance learning is always changing -- because of brilliance, technology, and Web 2.0/3.0. It's amazing, it only takes one person to have a brilliant ideal, and it is evolved --we have Steve Job and Apple, is out of this world there is something new with Apple every six months. We have Mark Zuckerberg and Facebook, both are in a league of their own and both are number one in their field of technology which plays into distance learning. I am wowed everyday and I have so much to learn. I can't keep up with all the Web 2.0 and 3.0 and distant learning.

The benefits of distance learning are endless. For so many the evolution of distance learning has changed the way we all learn in today’s society. A person can earn a degree in ID; research a medical diagnoses; explore other parts of the world without leaving the comfort of their home.

With distant learning I can use my time wisely and schedule my classroom assignments and projects around others things that are going on such as work, family and personal life. Distance learning gives me the opportunity to attend class and complete coursework wherever I am. If I have access to a computer, I can post my login and submit assignments on time. If I am in the traditional classroom and have to be out of town for whatever reason, I could possibly miss a lot and fall behind in my assignments.

Distance learning has evolved from written correspondence to online classrooms. Dr. Simonson describes distance learning as a formal education with the learning groups, including (teachers, students, and resources) are separated by demography and sometimes by time.

Distance learning is great for individuals who find class participation intimidating, myself included. In the online classroom everyone must participate by posting a discussion and responding to some of the other classmates discussions. In the last few years, distance education has become a major topic in education (Simonson, 2009).

I personally think the benefits out weigh the challenges. Because I am a hands-on and visual learner; I sometimes find being in the traditional face-to-face classroom more effective. In the beginning it was hard for me to discipline myself to log into the classroom daily. And it seems like there is more work involved with online classes. In a traditional classroom you do not have to cite and reference everything when you are having classroom discussions. For online discussions some professors want you to cite what you have read and create a reference page. In traditional classrooms, this isn’t necessary because discussions are verbal.

Because, I am a visual and hands-on learner I find myself reading some of the assignments several times before I get a clear understanding. Distance education courses should be carefully designed and developed before instructions begins (p.9)

As an Instructional Designer it is important to know what your job as an ID and you should begin by meeting with all the stakeholders. It is important to know the learning styles and design learning tools that are motivating and individuals will be excited about learning. Dr. Simonson believes distance-learning works. I listed the six steps on how distance learning works and I add my own commentary to the list. Dr. Simonson also went on to tell why it works and how it works. Important concepts to understand:

1. Training in effective instructional strategies is critical for teachers of distant learners.

2. Distance education courses should be carefully designed and developed before instructions begin. (Start with a storyboard)

3. Visualization of ideas and concepts is critical when designing instruction to be delivered to distant learners. (Add some animation to the training materials and make it more interactive).

4. Adequate support systems must be in place to provide the distant learner with access to resources and services. (Add a good support team, someone who is knowledgeable and has some expertise in the training, who can answer questions)

5. Interaction between the instructor and student and among students must be possible and encouraged. (This is when an incentive can be introduced to the training program) May the training worthwhile and motivating. This may help the learner to want to learn more and be excited about taking the training.

6. Assessment should be designed to relate to the specific learning outcomes of the instructional experiences. (Follow-up and evaluations are valid to any type of training materials).

Distance education can be as effective as any other category of instruction. Learning occurs and knowledge is retained. Simonson, Smaldino, Albright, & Zvacek. (2009) (p.9) Once Western Dental get and effective learning tool/training materials and include an evaluation tools, it will help to alleviate some of the stress, at least when it comes to the training.



Reference:
Simonson, M., Smaldino, S., Albright, M., & Zvacek, S (2009). Teaching and Learning at a Distance (4th edition)

Walden University Video. (2010). Distance Education: The next generation