I believe distance learning, as the name implies, involves a learning environment where students and teachers are in different geographical locations. Learners study within the comfort of their homes, work-place, libraries, and wherever they feel relaxed to gain the necessary knowledge. In addition, learning takes place online as well as other through communication devices.
In this week resources, I learned quite a few interesting definitions of distance learning. Prior to enrolling in Walden University, my understanding of distance learning was limited as I did not research any information on distance learning. Though I took quite a few courses and have more knowledge on this topic, this Distance Learning course and the week’s resources have really revealed the actual meaning of distance learning to me. In other words, I now discovered the fundamental definition of distance learning.
My revised definition of distance learning is based on the four main components of distance learning: this includes institutionally-based, separation of teacher and students, interactive telecommunications, and learning experiences through sharing of data, voice, and video (Michael, Smaldino, Albright & Zvacek, 2009). Learners learn in the comfort of their homes, workplace, libraries, and wherever they feel comfortable to study. Information in the distance learning environment is organized in a classroom where students have access to everything they need to get their assignments done.
Studying the history of distance learning, there is a pattern of evolution. In other words, there are rapid changes in technology and variety of programs used in distance learning. Although there are some challenges of distance learning, my vision for its future is that it will continue to develop because there will be an increase in demands for distance learning. Educators of K-12 schools will be training to meet the demand of the online learning. Consequently, there will be rigorous in-service training for educators in K-12 learning environments. Further, there will be innovation of more technology and telecommunication tools that will meet the increase demand of online leaning.
To sum up, distance learning has been evolved as the need for learning at a distance and the innovation of technologies in this field continue to grow. The definition for distance learning can vary from person to person and can be subject depending on one’s profession, experience, and technological know-how.
References:
Simonson, M., Smaldino, S., Albright, M., & Zvacek, S. (2009). Teaching and learning at a distance: Foundations of distance education (4th ed.) Boston, MA: Pearson.
