The Next Generation of Distance Education

The Next Generation of Distance Education

Educational technology is the foundation for the next generation of distance education

 

After reading the three articles by Moller, Huett, Foshay and Coleman, and listening to the Simonson video programs I'm excited about the Next Generation of Distance Education.  Comparing and contrasting the view points of theses scholars will convince you of the need for change in the field of distance education.  Dr. Michael Simonson (2008) is of the mind that distance education can benefit not just the learner, but also the institution.  Educators in K12 and higher education are realizing the value of distance learning in our interconnected societies and within our global economy, and virtual schools are quickly becoming more prevalent around the world. 

Educational technology provides unique opportunities for differentiating instruction, individualizing educational plans, and increasing student engagement.  Distance education has a strong history of providing a unique learning experience for students in varied environments.  Huett, Moller, Foshay, & Coleman (2008) explain the many benefits of distance education as a means of supporting the evolution of such instruction.Online courses should include properly designed learning experiences that engage learners with the instructor, with other learners, and with the content to promote high authenticity, high interactivity, and high collaboration.

The future of distance education will require further reliance on technological advances.  Distance education may become the great equalizer, freeing learners from the boundaries of geography and broadening their opportunities, no matter where they live and work.  earners may have increased motivation to learn and may sustain educational gains by enhanced access logistics such as not having to drive to campus (Laureate, 2008a).  In the digital age, students gain knowledge and skills by using Web 2.0 technologies, interactive platforms, and virtual worlds.  I agree with Moller, Huett, Foshay and Coleman, and Simonson because "distance" is no longer an obstacle in a global world.

References: Huett, J., Moller, L., Foshay, W. & Coleman, C. (2008, September/October). The evolution of distance education: Implications for instructional design on the potential of the Web (Part 3: K12). TechTrends, 52(5), 63–67.

Laureate Education, Inc. (Executive Producer). (2008a). Equivalency Theory. Baltimore, MD: Author.

Moller, L., Foshay, W., & Huett, J. (2008, July/August). The evolution of distance education: Implications for instructional design on the potential of the Web (Part 2: Higher Education). TechTrends, 52(4), 66–70.

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