Module 2 Blog Assignment: Elements of Distance Education Diffusion
Siemens (2008) implies that distance education is creating effective learning experiences because it consists of 3 needed elements ( global diversity, communication, and collaborative interaction) for diffusion. Making sure that appropriate technologies are used to deliver online instruction is very important to the success of distance learning. According to Simonson (2008), the success of distance learning relies on how technologies are used and the kind of information being communicated using the technologies. It is also important to make sure that the online educational experience is equivalent to face to face learning. One way to ensure this occurs is by delivering instruction through one or a combination of the various means of communication.
The shift towards distance education becoming an alternative/supplement to face to face education, has led to personal computers becoming an integral part of many distance learning programs. Whether they are used as a communications tool between students and instructors, or as an instructional delivery tool, they serve as a powerful asset to the program.
When looking at the history of communication technologies, the introduction of television as a means of instruction appears to be a good starting point as it was used to deliver instruction through correspondence and instructional media. Other technologies that were later adopted were the telephone, voice mail and fax machines which proved to be tools that are extremely useful in the delivery and successful implementation of distance learning. The telephones serve as back-up audio for all types of distance education technology uses. Audio conferencing can be accomplished using speakerphones. Voice mail systems provide users a way to educate those who need information but who don't need to talk to a human being to get that information. Fax machines have also become an important communication tool . Lessons, course syllabi, handouts and tests can be faxed between students and instructors located at multiple locations when computers are inoperable.
Computers are used in distance education in a number of ways, including electronic mail (e-mail), access to the Internet, on-line classes, computer and audiographic conferencing. Video conferencing is a very effective way of collaborating, delivering courses, and bringing in experts/instructors to help with problems or offer additional instructions. E-mail is fast becoming an alternative to written communication. Emails are instantaneous and can be accessed practically anywhere. In distance learning, e-mail is frequently used as a tool for students and instructors to go over lessons and to communicate on all types of issues. Despite the differences in these forms of technology they each have a unique role in the delivery and success of distance learning.
References
Siemens, G. (2008). Future of distance education. Video, EDUC 8842, Walden University, Laureate Education.
Simonson, M. (2008). Distance education: Higher education. Video, EDUC 8842, Walden University, Laureate Education.
Correspondence can be easily transmitted through the various means in which we have to communicate now. Of course that's always contingent upon the type of communicator we are interacting with. What's unfortunate with electronic correspondence is that one has the option of not responding. Given email is an informal medium and many students use it, do you see that it's a possibility for those who lack good writing skills improving or pretty much remaining the same in that area? I just wonder how some skills can be strengthened using technology when everything seems to be abbreviated. Are teachers still able to influence fluid writing from students?
ReplyDeleteLaToshia, one of the concerns that I have is in regards to students' writing skills. I think with text messages and the acronyms and abbreviations we use in emails it will hinder students who have weaknesses in writing. I don't think it will create as many problems for students who are good writers, but will for those who struggle with writing.
ReplyDeleteI liked your point about making distance education a combination of instructional methods. I think this is a grey area for a lot of people when they first hear about distance learning. Perhaps if they were given examples of how the class works and the opportunities to collaborate then their fears coudl be lifted.
ReplyDeleteI think if schools/univerities have pamphlets that emphasis not only the technology component to distance education, which is a large part of it, people may not be as fearful.
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