Reflection

Reflection

Distance learning has evolved in many different ways since I twas first introduced in the early years of education. It will continue to change it is supported and more people utilize the features. “Technology has also changed the face of education” (Galusha 2008).

Like all new things, distance learning has its positive and negative views. The idea of something nontraditional is threatening to individuals who do not like to be out of a comfort zone. As society has change many people are thrust into this new environment for job training or to complete education. “In preparing to enter the next century, educators of adults face the challenge of serving a student population and society that is increasingly diverse” (Galusha 2008). Many adults are choosing this option due to family structure, time, or other needs that cannot be met in a traditional classroom.

With these new individuals entering the world of distance education, a new light is being shined. As each generation is becoming for and more reliant on technology the idea of distance education is slowly becoming a more positive idea. Schools are utilizing website for lesson when class is not in session, students that cannot attend a regular classroom are still having educational needs met. Students are having more opportunity to take classes with a flexible schedule (Usjournal.com 2012). This is not only a plus for working families but also a positive for students who are working or cannot make the transition to a traditional college.

As an instructional designer, I think its important to not only explain distance learning and encourage individuals to use it, but I also think making the experience less threatening will also be a huge benefit to society. The positive of instructing as many people as possible with as much ease as possible can benefit not only the work force but those who experience the work force. Digital technologies for learning, such as self-paced learning modules, multimedia case studies, simulations, video tutorials, and communications and assessment tools, can increase the array of learning opportunities for adult students and their teachers (OVAE 2010).

References

Galusha, Jill (2008) Barriers to Learning in Distance Education. Retrieved from http://www.infrastruction.com/barriers.htm

OVAE (2012) Technology and Distance Learning. Retrieved from: http://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ovae/pi/AdultEd/tdlearn.html

USjournal.com (2011) The Advantages of Distance learning. Retrieved from: http://www.usjournal.com/en/students/help/distancelearning.html