EDUC 6135 Reflection

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.