Reflection on the current and future perceptions of distance learning in our society

I think that distance learners will increase over time as it has been doing over the years.  Dr. Siemens (2010) states that distance learning will continue to increase and be accepted in society.  He gave a great example.  In the video he stated to think back five years ago and compare it to distance learning today.  Five years ago when individuals were contemplating distance learning and the technology that should be used, it was not a realistic thought that technology could be as magnificent as it is today.  As years pass technology grows and its uses expand.  Five years from today we should have additional technology for distance learning classes that are not thought of today. 

As a current trainer I am currently aware of the importance of learning regardless of the environment.  As a trainer I have trained in traditional classroom settings, distance learning settings, and assisted with material creation as well.  This makes me aware of what is needed in the classroom for many different students.  As an instructional designer I will strive to develop effective methods to create distance learning courses that will assist in not allowing distance learning courses to stand out in a negative manner only because the majority or accustomed to a traditional classroom. 

As I learn and technology improves I will be able to create distance learning courses that will work for all learners, even the current learners that may not have the learning style that is perceived to be needed for the current online courses today.  In fact, one article referenced the use of a “craft approach” wherein instructors simply convert their face-to-face traditional instruction into an online format, without changing anything except location (Moller et al., 2008).  Another aspect is that when converted to online the designer will pay more attention to adding exceptional technology throughout the course and put less focus on the material and format.  I will make sure to focus on exceptional quality, analyze effectively, design to fit the learners, and improve the current designs.

I will continue to be a positive force at my organization in my field as I have been.  I always find ways to improve my online courses by getting to know my students and receiving feedback from my students.  This feedback allows me to see what is stated continuously and it allows me to make the needed improvements for my learners in the course.  I will also continue to increase my knowledge in the field and also use that knowledge to create effective material and successful learners.  Although there are usually strict timeframes I will make sure I enforce the needs assessment phase because that will make a great difference in my material.  The needs assessment phase is particularly important to ensuring that the instructional program will be designed to actually meet the needs of the institution and/or learners. Glossing over this part of the process often results in superficial evaluations and negative results (Moller et al., 2008).

 

 

 

 

References

 

Moller, L., Foshay, W. R., & Huett, J. (2008, July/August). The evolution of distance

education: Implications for instructional design on the potential of the web. TechTrends, 52(4), 66-70. Retrieved from http://lynnmunoz.wordpress.com/2011/10/09/the-impact-of-distance/.

 

Siemens, G.  (2010).  The future of distance education.  Laureate Education, Inc.

(Producer).  Video