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.