Week 1 Blog: Evolution of Distance Learning
This blog posting for my Distance Learning (EDUC 6135) course will focus on the evolution of distance learning as it relates to my own experiences. I will include my personal definition and observations of distance learning before starting this course, along with a revised definition that combines my previous thoughts with new information I have learned so far. In addition, I will summarize my vision for the future of distance learning and include a mind map to illustrate my definition and vision for the future of distance learning.
My
definition of distance learning before starting this course based upon my
observations is as follows: Distance learning is formal education in which the
learning group and instructor are separated. The separation between the
learning group and instructor can occur due to geographic locations, time
separation and knowledge transfer separation. Distance learning can occur
either through synchronous or asynchronous formats.
In
my current job role as an ID and as a student who is completing a program
online, I have observed distance learning occurring in different formats. My
observations combined with what I have learned through this week’s resources
have provided me with additional insight into distance education and how it has
evolved. I have learned the difference between synchronous and asynchronous
formats, along with the benefits and challenges of each type of format.
Synchronous distance learning is when the instructor is teaching the learning
group in a live format at the same time. Asynchronous distance learning is when
the learning group is being taught completely separate from the instructor on
their own time. I have observed the benefits and challenges to each type of
distance learning format due to the geographic locations, time separation, and
knowledge transfer separation of the learning group and instructor.
This
week’s learning resources have influenced my personal definition of distance
learning and allowed me to think about and revise my definition. It combines my
previous thoughts about distance learning, along with new information I learned
this week. My revised definition of distance learning is as follows: Distance
learning is institution-based formal education in which the learning group and
instructor are separated. The separation between the learning group and
instructor can occur due to geographic locations, time separation and transactional
distance. As I learned in this week’s resources, various telecommunication
systems are used to connect learning groups, instructors and resources in an
effective manner (Simonson, Smaldino, Albright & Zvacek, 2012). Distance
learning can occur either through synchronous or asynchronous formats.
My
vision for the future of distance learning and education as it continues on a
path of evolution and change is that distance learning will become more common
and widely accepted among institutions and in corporate training. As technology
continues to evolve, distance learning and education will also continue to
evolve as well. As I learned in this week’s resources, distance education has
evolved from mail correspondence beginning in Europe back in 1833 to emerging
Web 2.0 technological advances of today, such as wikis, blogs, and podcasts
(Laureate Education, Inc., n.d.). Institutions and corporations cannot ignore
the fact that distance learning and education is making an overall positive
impact on learners around the world. Distance education allows the learners to
be able to learn from their peers and instructors who are in various geographic
locations and time zones. Distance education also allows learners who may not
be able to achieve higher education due to geographic location, time limits,
and work and family obligations to have the same opportunities as others. Overall,
I have observed distance learning have a positive impact on my co-workers,
peers and myself as a professional in the education industry and as a student.
I am looking forward to seeing how the advances in technology will enhance and
further shape distance learning and education in the future.
References
Laureate Education, Inc. (n.d.). Distance learning time continuum.
