Defining Distance Learning

Distance learning is a fascinating topic. I have had experience with distance learning as both a learner as well as an educator. Perhaps these two distinct perspectives are the reason that I am so fascinated by the subject. I first discovered online learning back in 2001. At that time, it was not as nearly widespread as it is now. I was working in the field of public health and wanted to further my education in the field. Despite there being three local universities and one community college, there were no public health programs being offered at the time. During an internet search I was able to locate several programs out-of-state, but I was not in the position nor was I willing to relocate at the time. During this search, I also found a few programs that were offered online. I had some reservations at first, but I quickly discovered that distance education was the only option for me to pursue an advanced degree in my chosen field, so that is what I did.

Over the last two decades, distance learning has grown significantly in higher learning institutions because it is flexible and available to learners regardless of their physical location (O’Lawrence, 2007). In this week’s blog, I will discuss and define ‘distance learning’. I describe the evolution of distance learning. I will also focus on why the definition is constantly evolving and the factors that drive this evolution.

Personal Definition of Distance Learning

My definition for distance education is a simple one. I define distance education or learning as education that takes place when the student is not physically located at the institution providing the education. Everyone does not live close to a higher education institution. Further not everyone is prepared or able to move in order to pursue their educational goals. This certainly was the case for me.

Formally, distance education has been defined by Schlosser and Simonson (2010), as “institution-based, formal education where the learning group is separated, and where interactive telecommunications systems are used to connect learners, resources, and instructors” (p. 1). Simonson, Smaldino, and Zvacek (2015), further describe that there are four interwoven pieces that comprise distance education which are that it is again, it is institutionally based and not a self-study, there is a time and geographical separation between the teacher and student, interactive synchronous and asynchronous telecommunications, and the sharing resources among the learning community” (p. 33).

Revised Definition of Distance Learning

I do not think that my definition of distance learning has really changed. I think since I am a student in her second online educational program as well as an online instructor, I already had a firm grasp of the subject so I have not revised my definition. I think that the new information that I learned this week further supports thoughts and definition. Although my personal definition has not changed, I do believe the as time moves forward these changes are based on a person’s profession and their level of technical knowledge.

Author and CEO Tony Bates (2008) has described distance is more likely to be psychological or social, rather than geographical, in most cases. I completely disagree with this. O’Lawrence (2007) states that distance learning is any sort of instruction in which the student and teacher are separated by physical distance. This supports my argument that distance in education is not more psychological or social rather than geographical.

Future of Distance Learning: Evolution and Change

The evolution of distance education has had a considerable effect on higher education and technology is a key component. To keep up with changing technology, it will be necessary to develop ways to further expand course delivery systems and other programs for learning and teaching in higher education. The increase in the number of nontraditional students (adult learners) enrolling in higher education requires an alternative and more flexible course delivery system to meet students’ needs (O’Lawrence, 2007). Likewise, the need for employees to obtain new skills without disturbing their working lives for extended periods of time is warranted (O’Lawrence, 2007). Nevertheless, distance learning is not for everyone so there will still be many supporters of face-to-face instruction. There are some educational programs that currently do not lend themselves to being provided in an 100% online environment (distance education). I suspect as technology continues to evolve that this may someday change.

Mind Map

This mind map graphic illustrates my definition of distance learning.

References

Bates, T. (2008). What Is Distance Education? Retrieved from http://www.tonybates.ca/2008/07/07/what-is-distance-education/

O’Lawrence, L. (2001). An Overview of the Influences of Distance Learning on Adult Learners. Journal of Education and Human Development. 1(1). Retrieved from http://www.scientificjournals.org/journals2007/articles/1041.htm

Miller, G. (2014).  History of Distance Learning. Retrieved from http://www.worldwidelearn.com/education-articles/history-of-distance-learning.html

Schlosser, L.A., & Simonson, M. R. (2010). Distance Education: Definitions and glossary of terms, 3^rd edition. Charlotte, NC: Information Age Publishing, Inc.

Simonson, M., Smaldino, S., & Zvacek, S. (2015). Teaching and learning at a distance: Foundations of distance education. Charlotte, NC: Information Age Publishing, Inc.

 

Welcome to Distance Learning!

Hello everyone, Greetings from Florida!

I am Nicoletta Alexander and I currently reside in Florida although I am a New Orleans native (Go Saints!).  My academic background includes a Ph.D. in Health Sciences and a Master of Public Health.  My undergraduate degree is in Health Information Management.  I am a faculty member teaching courses in the Master of Public Health Program. I have been teaching for about six years. I also mentor doctoral students through their dissertation process.

On a personal note, I enjoy spending time with my husband and 7 year-old son.  We love to travel and visit extended.

Enjoy and welcome!

Nicoletta Alexander A.K.A. DrAlex08

Putting the Pieces Together

We have indeed explored many of the learning theories in this course. It goes without saying that I have a deeper, richer understanding of the different learning theories and learning styles. Prior to starting this class, I thought that I knew what my teaching and learning philosophy was. As this class comes to a close, I have to reflect further on my learning philosophy and the realization that I did not know nearly as much as I thought. Based on what I have learned I recognize that more of the theories are applicable to my philosophies than previously thought before.

Since learning more about these learning theories (i.e., connectivism, behaviorism, constructivism, and the like) I cannot say that my view on how I learn has necessarily changed a great deal. Its more that I have a better understanding of the way that learn as well as how to improve the way that I learn. I have found that some of my beliefs about learning turned out to be not so great, meaning that they are not the best learning methods. For instance, I have always believed that reading and rereading and other repetitious tactics were the best way for me to learning. I have also always learned through memorization. As it turns out, these methods are not effective learning styles. Now I realize why I have forgotten so much of what I ‘thought’ I had learned. Its seems that information that I memorized for the moment of a test, has long since evaporated from my mind. At least I can say now that I know why. As an adult learner, I now find that the formation of connections between networks of data and people for that matter heavily influences that way that I obtain and deliver information. As such, I have learned through this course that the connectivism theory seems to be the most appropriate conceptual framework to describe the way I absorb, process, and retain information that I learn.

The EDUC 6115 Learning, Theories, and Instruction course has had me to critically examine how technology has been effectively incorporated into instruction. Technology plays a significant role in every aspect of my life. I use technology frequently in my daily activities and it is a huge part of my learning. I earned my doctoral online and am working on my second master’s degree online. As a student of an online university, I am constantly using computers and my cell phone to search for and gather information. Online course delivery platforms and the ways that we communicate, send information, and complete assignments. I also have been involved in the working world of instructional design, teaching, and administration of online learning. As an instructional designer, I know that I will be tasked with taking into account all of this foundational knowledge and delivering instruction that utilizes the latest technology. In both face-to-face and online instruction, the integration of technology will be a powerful tool in the learning process.