Module 2

George Siemens (2008) discusses new communication technologies which have an impact on today's society. Communication for distance learners in higher education allows learners to gain knowledge from other's in their field while being in different geographic locations. Online communication tools have evolved from email communication with dial up internet access to wireless media and instant messaging, message boards, discussion boards/forums, video conferencing, etc. These communication technologies not only impact distance learners, but also corporations who have offices and partners located around the world. In Ray Schroeder's (2011) Online Learning Update, he reflects on the shift toward online learning and discusses the challenges that online degree programs face as it shifts to a global system. One of the major elements in ensuring a successful shift is the integration of appropriate communication tools. In another blog, Susan Nash (2011) discussess new innovation is communication technology. Distance learning apps for the iPhone, iPod, and iPad enable learners to participate in distance learning programs by using these small devices anywhere, anytime. With recent technological innovations, communication has been made easier; therefore, moving distance learning into a more collaborative environment.

http://people.uis.edu/rschr1/onlinelearning/blogger.html

http://community.elearners.com/all_blogs/inside_elearning_by_susan_smith_nash_ph_d_/b/inside_elearning/archive/2011/06/21/the-expanding-world-of-e-learning-apps-for-electricians-and-a-few-more.aspx

Laurete Education, Inc. (2008). Principles of Distance Education. Baltimore: Author.

Module 1

Simonson (2008) defines distance education as institutionally based formal education where the learning group is separated by geography and time and technologies are used to link the resources, teacher, and learner. Although distance education has been popular in Europe for many years, it wasn't until the internet became popular in the last 10 years that distance education gained popularity in the United States. Studies have shown a dramatic increase in the number of students enrolled in distance education programs which leads us to realize that this type of learning environment will continue to be in demand in the future. Simonson (2008) states that distance education has been promoted to the point that it is now more widely accepted by society, and is now at the point that it needs to be nurtured. As distance education has become more popular, many do not feel that this type of learning environment has the same expectations as face to face institutions. Simonson (2008) explains that distance learning and face to face learning should not be identical but equivalent. i feel that nurturing these programs in order to ensure equivalence must be a primary goal of the institution. Distance learning will always be different that face to face instruction; however, in the end, students from both types of programs should meet the same learning outcomes. In order to ensure that this goal is met, instructors must play a critical role in distance learning programs as they provide feedback to the learner. Another critical component of these programs is collaboration between learners. I feel that as society becomes more aware of the goals of distance education programs as well as the achievement levels of those who complete these programs, distance learning will gain the same respect as face to face institutions.

Laureate Education, Inc. (2008) Principles of Distance Education. Baltimore: Author.

Welcome to my blog!

Welcome to my blog! This blog has been created in accordance with a class assignment in my Educational Specialist degree program. I hope I don't confuse anyone...my first name, and the name I appear by in class is Jennifer, and I try to always sign things for class as Jennifer. However, my middle name, and the name I have always been called is Beth, and sometimes I slip up and sign things as Beth!