Module 1 Blog - The Next Generation of Distance Education
The Next Generation of Distance Education is rapidly approaching us. With the convenience of learning from the comfort of your home and the slumping economy; distance education maybe the only option for many people to pursue advance degrees.
Dr. Simonson defines distance education as using technologies to connect for the purpose of teaching and learning is going to grow significantly but not in a revolutionary way. Although distance education is starting to become more wide spread it still will not replace traditional schools. We're going to begin to use distance education technologies almost across the board in the teaching/learning process (K-12 education, higher education, professional education and in the training environment in corporations and businesses) (Simonson, 2009).
Moller, Foshay, and Huett stated that the enthusiasm and demand for e-learning development
far outstrips the available supply of people with the competency to develop it—regardless of whether such competency is gained from an academic program, a commercial workshop, or even gifted intuitive practice. We should legitimately call for more training programs of all types to meet the demand. In the meantime, the shortage of trained people results in e-learning initiatives
built by individuals who lack the expertise to produce effective products (Moller, Foshay, & Huett, 2008).
After reviewing all the resources for this assignment; I do agree with the authors that there is a need to evolve distance education. As stated by Moller, Foshay, and Huett we do need to have efficient instructor to execute these courses. I also feel that distance education will not replace the traditional schools, because as a young college student you want that campus life experience. I think that the only setbacks to the evolution of distance education right now would be economics and lack of qualified personnel.
References:
Simonson, M. (Speaker). (n.d.). Distance Education: The Next Generation. Retrieved September 8, 2009 from http://sylvan.live.ecollege.com/ec/crs/default.learn?CourseID=3649021&Survey=1&47=5847717&ClientNodeID=984645&coursenav=1&bhcp=1
Moller, L., Foshay, W., & Huett, J. (2008). The evolution of distance education:Implication for instructional design on the potential of the web (Part 1-3). TechTrends, Vol. 52 Issue 3 p70-75, p6. Retrieved September 20, 2009 from http://web.ebscohost.com.ezp.waldenulibrary.org/ehost/pdf?vid=4&hid=107&sid=46886755-1180-4493-9f53-565f8c1e39ac%40replicon103
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Kayla,
ReplyDeleteI agree that distance education needs to evolve passed the blackboard and message board programs it currently provides. I am doing my project topic on the development of critical thinking of adult learners who take distance education courses. I have read that the Socratic Method of questioning is effective in an asynchronous discussion forum. I think that more online or distance learning needs to see interaction using satelite or video lecturing. Online learning is a great way to obtain an education but there still exist more areas to cover than have been tapped into. Your post was very informative and I enjoyed reading it.
Ametha Williams
Distance education has progressed and become more popular for working adults especially. This is now the big 'to do' in education since it fits into the schedule and life of adults. This type of education is good for people to attend that school from other states and countries. This opens the intake of students attending college and staying in school. This could also open more jobs for teachers who are technology savvy to learn the procedures and create more classes for the online colleges.
ReplyDeleteKayla, distant education is indeed evolving at a tremendous rate, and it is true when you speak of the importnce of convenient and comfortable learning to many people. I also agree that distant education will not replace traditional schools, but it will certainly provide an additional option for our learning students.
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