According to Dr. Simonson, there has been and will be a significant growth in distance education. Even with the high growth rate he believes that DE will not replace the traditional schools (Simonson, 2008). I agree with this statement because DE is not for every student. Some students need to interact with other students therefore; DE is not appropriate for them. I also believe in the Equivalency Theory Dr. Simonson discussed. This theory states that distance education is not identical to face-to-face education, but it is equivalent (Simonson, 2008). There can be the same learning outcome for face-to-face education and DE just a different way of achieving the same learning outcome.
In examining the potential of web-based learning, the focus must contain capabilities not possible or at least highly impractical in a traditional classroom (Moller, Foshay, Huett, 2008). I believe web-based learning provides a different learning atmosphere than the traditional classroom. According to the articles there needs to be planning, better quality, support, better structure, training, and better attitudes towards distance education. I agree with the information in the articles, each area is important to the survival of DE. A statement that hit home with me is, We fear that distance education may become little more than a "dumping ground" for credit recovery as well as a repository for those unable or unwilling to function in the more traditional classroom environment (Ronsisvalle & Watkins, 2005). I see how DE is currently being used as a "dumping ground". I think DE can go beyond the point it is now. With the proper ingredients it can thrive alongside the traditional classroom.
Moller, L., Forshay, W. R., & Huett, J. (2008). The Evolution of Distance Education: Implications for Instructional Design on the Potential of the Web. Techtrends: Linking Research & Practice To Improve Learning, 52(3), 70-75. doi:10.1007/s11528-008-0158-5
Moller, L., Foshay, W. R., & Huett, J. (2008). The Evolution of Distance Education: Implications for Instructional Design on the Potential of the Web. Techtrends: Linking Research & Practice To Improve Learning, 52(4), 66-70. doi:10.1007/s11528-008-0179-0
Huett, J., Moller, L., Foshay, W. R., & Coleman, C. (2008). The Evolution of Distance Education: Implications for Instructional Design on the Potential of the Web. Techtrends: Linking Research & Practice To Improve Learning, 52(5), 63-67. doi:10.1007/s11528-008-0199-9
I noticed that several students have quoted that the DE classes might become a dumping ground for students who want to pull up their credits/GPA. I have found that DE classes require more work than f2f classes so it would seem to me that this would not be the place for an "easy A". Whay has been your experience?
ReplyDeleteI agree that DE classes require a lot of work. I compare it to going to the convenience store vs. going to Wal-Mart to purchase something. You may find what you need quicker at the convenience store but the price will be higher than if you go to Wal-Mart. We may access our classes quicker online but there is much work required when we do get inside the classroom.
ReplyDeleteThere are students taking online classes at my school now that are not passing the classes because they are not focused and are not trying to do the work. DE may be a dumping ground for student with behavior issues but not for those wanting an "easy A". If the curriculum is created correctly and the support system is there DE is just as rigorous as face to face instruction.
You made some important points about distance education not being for every student. I agree with that statement also. Some students need to have classroom interaction and some students can learn independently on their own, therefore it depends on the student's learning style and how they learn.
ReplyDeleteTina,
ReplyDeleteI must say that I agree with your blog, it is evident that in order for something to be successful, there has to be a plan, and along with a plan comes planning. As an educator, we have the material, but we are unsure how to display or even begin to incorporate it in our classrooms. I do feel as though not enough planning time is available for many, which causes them to be against the diverse learning styles. This would only cause both the instructor and the student to get behind.
By incorporating more planning time and more time to see it in action would create a vision for the teachers who are new to the different learning styles.
I agree that web-based learning provides a different learning atmosphere than the traditional classroom. I will say that I have enjoyed having my classes online. It shows that you don't have to be face to face with your instructor in order to learn something new.
ReplyDeleteWhen I saw that quote about online learning is going to be a dumping ground for credit recovery I was shocked. I feel that online learning has been very beneficial to use as adults with families. We are able to attend school from home and still have time with our families.
ReplyDeleteKasey,
ReplyDeleteI think the statement about online learning being a dumping ground for credit recovery is relevant to the high school setting. In some high schools this may be the case. Also, sometimes students that can't behave in the traditional classroom setting get placed in the online classes. I am speaking from my experience; I understand that this is not the case everywhere.