Reflection: Perceptions of Distance
Learning
Throughout this
course, I have learned a great deal about the different perceptions that
surround online learning and distance education. Our society seems to be slowly moving in a
direction that is more understanding and more accepting of online learning. It takes time for people to understand how
advancements in technology can benefit online learning and distance education
by providing various tools that can be utilized to enhance distance learning. Currently, perspectives on distance learning
seem to be rooted in how familiar people are with distance learning and whether
they have had or whether they know someone who has had a successful online
learning experience. For those who are
completely unfamiliar with online learning, it’s important that information is
available to them regarding how online learning can be successful and meet
learning objectives/standards just like a traditional face-to-face learning
experience.
There are many
advocates for distance learning, just as there are many skeptics of distance
learning; it is important that both are aware of what makes online learning and
distance education successful so that they understand the difference. An online course can be successful or
unsuccessful, just like a face-to-face course can be. I think once more people start to understand
this they will be more open to distance learning. In the next 5-10 years I think that the
perceptions of distance learning will be more understanding and therefore more
accepting of online learning. I think
more people by that time will have demonstrated their success in advancing
their knowledge and skills through online coursework and degree programs;
giving distance learning a better reputation.
In the next 10-20 years I think that technology and education will have
enhanced the online world to such an extent that it will make distance learning
just as effective and just as accepted as face-to-face learning.
As an
instructional designer, I can be an advocate for distance learning and improve
societal perceptions by educating those I come in contact with about the
benefits of distance learning. Through
talking with others about what makes a distance learning experience successful,
I can educate them on the potential benefits of successful online
learning. I can also show them the many
options that are available concerning technology tools to improve learning and
communication. I can utilize my
knowledge of distance learning as an instructional designer to educate clients
and others whenever possible. I can also
demonstrate various technology tools and learning experience simulations for
them to illustrate how an online learning environment should operate in order
to be successful. As people learn more
and understand the options and benefits of online learning, they should become
more open to and accepting of it.
In the field of
distance education, I can encourage continuous improvement by staying aware of
the most current advancements in technology and education. By staying abreast of these advancements and
understanding how they can be effectively applied to distance education, I can
make sure I am applying them appropriately.
It is important to also stay aware of critical research in relation to
distance education so that I can utilize findings to improve my work. Through keeping a critical eye in relation to
learning theories, technology tools, and other components of distance
education, I can make sure I am utilizing what is most effective. Encouraging improvement within the field of
distance education should be supported by applications of learning theories and
technology tools that have been critically analyzed and shown to be effective.
I will continue to
stay aware and to research new advancements in technology and education so that
I can positively improve distance learning as an instructional designer. I will work to educate others on the elements
of successful online learning. I hope to
be an advocate for continuous improvement in distance learning so that society
understands the benefits that are available with distance learning. As Dr. Siemens stated in our video
presentation this week, there is a growing acceptance of the quality of communication,
the value of diversity, and the various benefits of distance learning (Laureate,
2010). It’s my goal to further that
growing acceptance by actively educating others through my work as an
instructional designer and through my experiences as an online learner.
References
Laureate Education, Inc.
(Producer). (2010). The future of distance education [Video]. Baltimore, MD.
