The Future of Distance Learning - Reflection

Distance learning is certainly a type of learning that is becoming more prominent in today’s society. Although prominent, it is not perceived by all in the same eye. Many will always see the traditional face-to-face learning environment as the best option. However, with the many capabilities and advances made possible by technology, I am convinced that the future of distance learning is very bright. As communication technology increases in quality, we are going to start to see the educational model around it ramp up significantly. So distance education will then become more distributed than it’s ever been (Siemans, 2010).

As an instructional designer, I can definitely be an advocate for improving society’s perception of distance learning. Individuals tend to believe and put trust in things that can be proved to them; therefore, it would be necessary to make known any success in distance education that is encountered. Society’s perception of distance education can also be improved by designing courses that really make a true effort to satisfy the distant learner. This can be done by creating courses that try to create a true learning community and incorporate the proper tools to maximize learning and communication between the learners themselves and the between the learners and the instructor.

Although distance education is not easily accepted by all, it has come a long way to get to its current status. Therefore, it is important for those of us in the field of instructional design to continue to do the things necessary to ensure distance education continues to improve in quality. One of the main differences between the traditional and distance education environments is the line of communication. Traditional’s ability of instant communication gives it an advantage over distance education. As a result of this, one of the main focal points in the development of distance education should be the effectiveness of communication within its environment. By making this a main agenda item when developing/designing distance education courses, I believe I will be able to be a positive force for continuous improvement in the field of distance education.

As I further my career in the field of Instructional Design, the knowledge I acquired from this course will certainly serve as a good foundation. As stated in our text, one key to effective distance education is correct instructional design, a systematic process that applies research-based principles to educational practice. If the design is effective, instruction will also be effective (Simonson, Albright, Smaldino, & Zvacek, 2009).

References

Siemens, G. (2010). The Future of Distance Education. [Online video]. Retrieved December 25, 2010, from http://sylvan.live.ecollege.com/ec/crs/default.learn.

Simonson, M., Smaldino, S., Albright, M., & Zvacek, S. (2009). Teaching and learning at a distance (4th ed.). Boston: Pearson.