Coleman, Foshay, Huett, Moller, and Simonson feel that distance education needs to evolve because it will better suit educators and students, by challenging the students academically at different aspects. All the authors see the pros and cons of distance education, but they place the burden on society to help sale this idea and nip any problems. It is incumbent upon all professionals with a commitment to the potential of technology and training, no matter what their theoretical or ideological bent, to think outside the box, to collaborate and to advance the common vision (Coleman, Foshay, Huett, & Moller, 2008).
I agree with the authors on the grounds of society is so uneasy when it comes to change. Distance education and its technology can present educational advantages of offering classes under difficult circumstances and can help the economic crisis in America (more students and not enough classrooms). My biggest concern is that this wonderful opportunity will get abused by becoming a dumping ground for special education students, overaged students, and behavior problems.
Sources:
Coleman, C., Forshay, W.R., Huett, J., Moller, L. (2008). The evolution of distance education:
implications for instructional design on the potential of the web. TechTrends, 52(5), 63-67.
Retrieved from Walden Library Search database of Academic Search Premier, (AN) 34729472.
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As one who is relatively new to the e-learning experience, I am intrigued by all the research that indicates that technology does not appreciably enhance individual achievement scores. But, what e-learning is proven to enhance is access. As more people of all nationalities, races, ages, and cultures gain access to knowledge then the over-all consciousness of the global society will be improved. While it is up to the institutions to determine eligibility for degree programs, I believe that the students with special needs, the aged, and the outcasts can, and should, benefit from access to online knowledge. Educational institutions (online or traditional) that choose to confirm an advanced degree on a substandard student risks academic standing and reputation, yet that doesn't mean that learners of all levels and backgrounds should not strive for a higher goal. The Internet gives them that opportunity.
ReplyDeleteI agree with you in that the distance learning approach opens you up to working and exchanging ideas with people from all backgrounds, and who have different professional experiences that a brick and mortar school may not be able to offer. It also offers these same experiences to the k12 student. I would love to see more of these types of courses offered.
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