Reflection EDUC 6135

William Knopf-Reflection

Distance learning has already changed throughout history. The original hand written correspondence has given way to the internet and other faster types of media. In the next 5-10 years the future of distance learning will become more acceptable. Siemens (2010) stated that just in the last 5 years the amount of traditional universities are offering some sort of distance learning courses, whether they are hybrid or fully off-campus courses.
When I become an ID I will show the value of the distance learning model. For example in my field of secondary education the need and use of distance learning is already increasing. In my classroom, all assignments are listed on Edline where the students have 24/7 access to the files and information that we cover in class. The students that are out of school will not lose the information, and can come back to the classroom not as far behind as before. One of the other areas that I see for distance learning is the GED programs and the alternative learning programs. For example when you have students that are trying to acquire the knowledge, but not in the traditional classroom the content is “watered down.” With distance learning there could be a teacher that teaches all the GED programs and alternative programs via the internet or webcam. This would allow those students the same opportunities as the students in the classroom.
The world is growing faster and faster each day. Technology is improving by leaps and bonds. The 21st century student will not need the same skills to master their workplace as our grandparents did. The traditional methods are effective and with the delivery styles such as blended instruction, those best practices can still be used and utilized. The one way to keep positive about distance learning is to show more and more people the benefits, and disadvantages. Research and best practices have shown that when you give the audience the true picture, they will make the most logical choice for themselves (Simonson, 2010). Personally I know that distance learning has made getting my Master’s degree possible. Distance learning has allowed me to continue my education with the flexibility that fits a crazy packed schedule. Since I am a teacher (middle school), coach 3 sports, have a family, and still can maintain a social life.

Sources:
Laureate Education (Producer). (2010). The Future of Distance Education. [Online]. Retrieved from Walden University eCollege.
Simonson, M., Smaldino, S., Albright, M., & Zvacek, S. (2009). Teaching and learning at a distance: Foundations of distance education (4th ed.) Boston, MA: Pearson