Distance Learning
Distance learning (education) has become an integral part of the education process over the past few decades and is growing in popularity as technology advances.(Willis 1992) describes distance education (as) "the organizational framework andprocess of providing instruction at a distance. Distance education takes place when ateacher and student(s) are physically separated, and technology…(is) used to bridge theinstruction gap." (Coutts 1996). Furthermore, "distance learning activities are designedto fit the specific context for learning, the nature of the subject matter; intended learningoutcomes, needs and goals of the learner, the learner's environment and the instructional echnologies and methods." (American
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Also technological decisions should be based on instructional content, the need for involvement, and the particular learning outcomes desired. (Counts 1996)
"There is some evidence that the success of distance education in schools depends largely on the effectiveness of the teacher, and that this is in turn depends on the teacher's knowledge, skills, enthusiasm, and commitment to innovation." (Moore & Thompson 1990).
When planning distance education, Willis (1998) lists a few factors to consider:
Distance education is about increasing access, not saving money. The technical, logistical and support costs can be very high. Therefore, the financial aspects must be considered.
Nothing should be assumed. Decisions should be based on definable problems and tangible customer needs. A needs assessment, though time consuming, may be worth the time to complete.
Realize that good plans are never finished. Rather than wait until all issues are resolved and a long-term plan in place, resolve the immediate issues, get started, and follow an approach that enables you to do short- and intermediate-term planning while completing the tasks at hand.
Share assumptions with stakeholders. Too often administrators and technologists make distance delivery decisions without the informed participation
“Can You Be Educated from a Distance,” an insightful essay by James Barszcz, brings to focus some of the benefits and disadvantages of Distance Learning education (DL). In it, Barszcz discusses the mechanics of DL courses available to students, the quality of education DL can offer, and some reasoning behind its rapidly growing popularity. “Can You Be Educated from a Distance” is an engaging article that students of all ages can benefit from.
Setting up a Distance Learning Task Force is necessary to assess university resources, and student needs (Hillman & Corkery, 2010). This will allow administration to have all the facts needed to decide on a path. Task Force determines the expansiveness of the online program and the courses implemented (Hillman & Corkery, 2010). Departmental head’s research will navigate the universities decisions. Students take classes towards specific degrees, which the Task Force identifies. Priority of classes should focus on gaps in regionally based education (Hillman & Corkery, 2010). The Task Force efforts in developing a rationale has an effect on university
Distance Education is connected to the conveyance of classroom substance to understudies who are either on or off grounds and spotlights on understudies isolated from each other and from the instructor.19 This learning action incorporates access to direction that is autonomous of time and place limits.
All three participates feel that there is a lot that can be done with distance learning. The technology is there. Participant one stated “we have the technology, but our students still
For the years, many individuals have decided to pursue their education via distance learning. Distance learning has given individuals the opportunity to learn and study course material at their own pace. Distance learning offers many advantages. First, many enjoy the convenience of distance learning that works around their schedule. Second, distance learning offers flexibility to learners with no set time to complete assignments and readings. A leaner is the master of their own schedule and can choose a time that works best for them (Study magazine). Lastly, the cost of distance learning is often cheaper than traditional education, with no added expenses.
Distance learning is a way of continuing your education online, and more people are signing up for courses every day. There are many advantages of distance learning and also benefits of distance learning when compared to the traditional continued education options.
Are some principles educators needs to be familiar with and should follow. In general, distance educators are expected to have certain competencies which portray the dual importance of both communication and technical skills. These competencies are: Interpersonal Communication, Planning Skills, Collaboration/Teamwork Skills, language Proficiency, Writing Skills, Organizational Skills, Feedback Skills, Knowledge of Distance Education Field, Basic Technology Knowledge, and Technology Access Knowledge. This competency model will be useful in serving as a research foundation for development training and certification programs for distance education professionals. In addition, these competencies, content knowledge and understanding of educational principles will enable the distance educator to meet the criteria for as a successful distance
Successful online students understand that their instructors are facilitators of their learning process and that the individual student must be a dedicated and goal-oriented self-starter. Online students are motivated and goal-oriented. They put their schoolwork at the top of their list of priorities. Students who enjoy face-to-face immediate interactions in a room environment may not a "good fit." For distance education. Distance education students are basically Independent Learners and feel comfortable in taking responsibility for their own learning process. Though. interactions between the student and instructor, they may not receive an immediate response. Successful DL students must be self-disciplined and goal-oriented students are expected
Distance education institutions globally, are faced with the high dropout rate. The isolation of students from their institutions, teachers and other students is the main cause of high dropout rate according to Simpson (2016). As a result, distance education
Distance education has can be a great as well as bad tool to use in the educational system. There are many pros and cons to both side of the spectrum. In today’s world this is the constant struggle school, education faculties, along with any type of faculties that uses technology. They don’t wither or not to make the transition into technology or to stay in the old ways. One can’t blame them either there are many things that can contribute to a person wanting to reframe transition to newer technology. These disadvantages consist of lack funds, lack of focus, social problems, accessibility, and several other problems. In contrast what it has in disadvantages it makes up for in advantages. Distance learning can provide individuals along with massive corporation with great advantages. The advantages consist of factors such as flexibility, advancing technology skills, accessibility to thoughts who may have a tough time making it to class, eliminates some anxiety, better time efficiency, and allows one to learn at their own pace. In order to asses wither, or not distance learning is positive or negative one need to have an understanding what exactly distance is.
Distance education has evolved in various ways over the last one hundred years. ELearning theories have influenced distance education practice throughout the years in various ways. Anderson (2008) states, how “Good theory helps us to envision new worlds, makes things, and keeps us honest. (p. 46).” The blend of online learning theories such as behaviorism, cognitivism, constructivism, and the online collaborative theory, have all played a major role in this influence. These theories continue to change how educators teach. It also helps educators to understand how students learn. As eLearning theories progress, they continue to have a direct effect on distance education practice. ELearning theory has cause a shift in teaching pedagogies within distance education.
Pepicello’s ideas and philosophies about distance education were stimulating and thought-provoking. While he did not necessarily know that higher education was where he wanted to spend his career, it was his passion, so he followed it (Pepicello, personal communication, June 22, 2016). Eventually, he would cross paths with John Sperling, the founder of UoP, who he considers a visionary and his most influential leader and mentor: “He took me from a doubter to one of the most vigorous proponents of distance education in the country” (Personal communication, June 19, 2016). Pepicello’s passion for higher education and his eventual passion for distance education, then, guided
The presence of software environments and sophisticated networks has learning available for anyone, at any place and time. For instance, multimedia technology has augmented the attractiveness of computer-mediated distance learning that’s often perceived to be more suitable for learners who work or have obligations that prevent them from attending conventional classes in their respective campuses. Access to libraries has also been enhanced through the use of broadband digital networks. According to a recent research, distance learning based on computer-network-mediated prototypes allows universities to push their boundaries further outward in order to serve learners anywhere, at any time.
Now some open universities are providing academic services in the form of online course material, interactive classes and online teaching and learning facilities to the student community with the help of information and communication technology. ICT based Distance Education (DE) has come to stay in the
Distance education is a unique type of education that is available online. Lessons are given, along with assignments; assignments are then completed and submitted through the internet. This type of education is an alternative to traditional education. It is not for everyone; however, it has become popular among people who work or stay at home. While distance education has its defects overall, it’s a great way to start or finish post-secondary education. Nevertheless, distance education can help people who decide to take this step.