Reflection

Reflection

In both the 5-10 and 10-20 year spans, my perception of the future of distance learning is that both in the k-12 and adult age groups distance learning would be the predominant program in all schools. This could be either in a hybrid form or in a complete online form. This would be because Video conferencing or other synchronous methods could be used to replace the traditional classroom. Traditional classes would become absolute as more of our young learners become more technology savvy as this is the trend of our new baby boomers. Also traditional schools that have barely promoted online courses on their Home pages if at all (Gambescia and Paolucci 2009), would then be one of the prominent features on most school websites and probably even the only thing on most websites. Then those remaining diehard traditional school would be talking about reverse Academic Fidelity and Integrity Attributes. Also the Helix module of education comprising of universities, governments and business (Siemens 2010) would even be more in place as one body.

can as an Instructional Designer serve as a proponent of Distance Education by making sure that I am an integral part of this phenomenon aspect of distance learning in whatever field I am working in. Also I can make sure that Academic Fidelity and Integrity are maintained (Gambescia, S., & Paolucci, R. 2009) in Distance Education.

I would be a positive force for continuous improvement in the field of distance by making sure that the ADDIE model is followed when designing programs, aiming to be as fluent as possible in multimedia technologies and communal learning especially with the expectancy of neomillenial learning styles. According to Dr. Saba, Theory in Distance Learning is a guide or map that would help Instructional Designers plan effectively and we must as designers endeavor to support its continual progress. I also need to consider all aspects of the system, the learner, the content, the method and material and the technology. I would have to remove any extraneous materials to make my work be professional. Basically I would make sure especially if

I am in the Education field that discussion groups and collaboration are all an integral part of online forums. One of the things I have learned especially from my research this week was that persons view online programs as being rigorous but we can overcome it all and still be a positive force for continuous improvement in the field of distance education.

References

Dede, C. (2005). Planning for neomillennial learning styles. Educause Quarterly. 28(
1), 7-12.


Gambescia, S. , & Paolucci, R. (2009) Academic Fidelity and Integrity as Attributes of University Online Degree Program Offerings. University of West Georgia, Distance Education Center.
http://www.westga.edu/_distance/ojdla/spring121/gambescia121.html

Simonson, M. L., Smaldino, S., Albright, M. & Zvacek, S. (2009). Teaching and Learning at a Distance. Foundations of Distance Education. Pearson USA.
Video Program: Simonson (Dr.), & Saba, (Dr,)"Theory and Distance Learning"