The Next Generation of Distance Learning

Distance Education

            Universities have seen a tremendous increase in the number of students entering their distance education programs. Many non-traditional students find that distance education allows them the opportunity to maintain their careers and obtain higher degrees more conveniently. Online learning in k-12 schools is also increasing. Another benefit of distance education is that it can serve remote learners as well as locales (Moller, Foshay, and Huett, 2008). Huett, Moller, Fushay, and Coleman (2008), stated that, “the Internet and e-learning make wonderful things possible if educators and trainers decide to exploit the possibilities intelligently and systematically”.

            According to Simonson (2000), e-learning should be based on decisions that reflect the best way to facilitate learning. Also, teachers must have a wide variety of activities that provide equivalent learning experiences, but still recognize the differences among learners (Simonson, 2000).

            Through group assignments students are able to problem solve and create learning by sharing ideas to complete a task. As part of the process of mastering content, significant learning often occurs as the result of learner-to-learner communication (Moller, et. al., 2008).       

References

Moller, L., Foshay, W., & Huett, J. (2008, May/June). The evolution of distance education: Implications for instructional design on the potential of the Web (Part 1: Training and Development). TechTrends, 52(3), 70–75. 

Moller, L., Foshay, W., & Huett, J. (2008, July/August). The evolution of distance education: Implications for instructional design on the potential of the Web (Part 2: Higher Education). TechTrends, 52(4), 66–70.

Huett, J., Moller, L., Foshay, W. & Coleman, C. (2008, September/October). The evolution of distance education: Implications for instructional design on the potential of the Web (Part 3: K12). TechTrends, 52(5), 63–67.

Simonson, M. (2000). Making decisions: The use of electronic technology in online classes. New Directions for Teaching and Learning, 84, 29–34.