A Reflection on the Future of Distance Learning

A Reflective Paper on the Future of Distance Learning

 

Distance learning has become a "hot topic" in the field of education and corporate training. There is no doubt with the advancement of technology; distance learning will be making a lasting imprint on training and education for years to come.  Simonson et al. reports "many educators are making claims about how distance education is likely to change education and training".  (Simonson, et al., 2012, pg. 4).  As new instructional designers, we need to begin conversations now on where distance education will be some five to twenty years from now, how we can improve the perception of distance learning, and what our role will be in the continuous improvement in the field. 

 

Distance education has already made a lasting impression in the field of education.  Gambescia and Paolucci said "college-level online courses have out-distanced all other forms of distance learning, in a remarkably short amount of time".  (Gambescia, et al., 2009)   The current climate of distance education indicates a positive upswing in growth.  Siemens said once we “bridge the gap of comfort” with technology, we will naturally accept distance education.  (Laureate Education, 2009)  Siemens goes on to say with “contributions from experts around the world, increased use of multimedia, games, and simulations, and growing trends supporting the Triple Helix model, online learning [is] becoming a preferable medium of learning”.  (Laureate Education, 2009)

 

We can improve the perception of distance learning by actively encouraging institutions to equitably promote their online programs.  Currently, there is a “lack of high visibility of university online degree program offerings”.  (Gambescia, et al., 2009)  We can also seek ways to continue to improve communication between students and instructors.  Holmberg’s Theory of Interaction and Communication is evident that communication is vital to online learning.  (Simonson, 2012)  It was also apparent in our mini-surveys communication and interaction was very important to the learners.

 

Our role as instructional designers to be positive re-enforcement in the field of distance education begins with applying sound theory in our instructional design.  Simonson et al. writes “According to Keegan, a firmly based theory of distance education will be one that can provide the touchstone against which decisions – political, financial, educational, social – when they have to be made can be made with confidence.”  (Simonson, et al., 2012, pg. 42)  We also need to use the appropriate tools in technology that help meet the learning objectives.  Finally, we must seek opportunities to assure the instructors of our products are adequately equipped and trained to deliver a quality online experience.

 

I am convinced distance learning is here to stay.  What we have already experienced with online learning can only get better five to twenty years from now.  The tables have already begun to turn with the perception of distance learning.  Siemens said “distance education is growing in acceptance in society as a whole”.  (Laureate Education, 2009)  He attributes this to more people “having experiences communicating online”.  (Laureate Education, 2009)  There is also no doubt instructional designers will play an active role in continuous improvement in distant learning.

References

Gambescia, S. &. (2009). Academic Fidelity and Integrity as Attributes of University Online Degree Program Offerings. Online Journal of Distance Learning Administration, Volume XII, Number 1.

Laureate Education, I. (2009). The Future of Distance Learning.

Simonson, M. S. (2012). Teaaching and Learning at a Distance: Foundations of Distance Education. Boston: Pearson Education.