Blog Module 1 Assignment

Dr. Simonson pointed out that correspondence courses have been around for decades. With the microcomputers coming on board in the 80's, the internet became increasingly popular. This increased use of the internet has resulted in a gradual shift towards online classes for training in corporations or businesses, universities and K-12 programs. Today, K-12 programs are set to offer virtual classes to students who want to get ahead or as a way of offering classes which can not be found in traditional schools. Although all of the authors agree that distance education is reaching a critical mass stage, the authors also agree that it should not become a place for putting students who can not cut it in a traditional class, but used to broaden a students repertoire of classes. Moller, Foshay and Huett (2008) indicated that not only should we be careful in what students are allowed to take in distance education classes, but there must be committment from the faculty to insure that the quality and training provided in distance education classes is based on sound instructional design. In addition, they stated that instructional designers should advocate for better web-based instructional models for online learners. Dr. Simonson (2008) pointed out that online learning provides an array of activites which can address and support the different learning styles of students. However, Simonson (2008) indicated that instructional designers should make sure that these programs do not try to mimic a traditional classroom with face to face instruction, but that online learning should provide an equivalent learning experience for students.

In summarizing the authors view on the plight of distance education, I believe they see a need for distance education in the future, but they all cautioned designers and developers of the online programs that there are challenges which will have to be considered in order for distance education to grow. Finally, they agree that distance education from all fronts will never replace traditional classes.

I agree with the last statement as there are students who need face to face contact with teachers to succeed as there are students in homes who do not have access to computers due to economic conditions. However, I believe that e-learning will see continued growth because of adults returning to school and students who want to finish early. Businesses have already taken the leap to e-training as a means of saving money via videoconferencing.

References

Moeller, L., Foshay, W., & Huett, J. (2008). The evolution of distance education: Implications for instructional design on the potential of the web. TechTrends, 52(3), 70-76.

Moeller, L., Foshay, W., & Huett, J. (2008). The evolution of distance education: Implications for instructional design on the potential of the web. TechTrends, 52(4), 66-71.

Moeller, L., Foshay, W., & Huett, J. (2008). The evolution of distance education: Implications for instructional design on the potential of the web. TechTrends, 52(5), 63-68.

Simonson, M. (Writer), & Laureate Education, Inc. (Producer). (2008). Distance education: The next generation & Equivalency theory. [Vodcast]. Walden University.

Blog Introduction

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