Thirty-six students, several different states in the U.S., and a few different countries later, you have a distance online classroom, EME 6414- Web 2.0 Based Learning and Performance to be exact. Distance classes-- e-learning spaces, allow people from varying backgrounds and cultures to exchange ideas and collaboratively learn. Although e-learning classrooms present challenges, such as creating a curriculum that is engaging, one that is socially interactive, and addresses each learner wholly, it presents an advantage. These distance learning courses are culturally inclusive, and they increase access to a quality education. The challenges in creating an online curriculum are present, but the benefits are clear, the opportunity to learn has become more equitable.
So...for professionals, with a passion to increase accessibility to a quality education, there lies countless opportunities for intrepid educators and trainers.
If you are reading this, I have an inclination that you are interested in technology and teaching or training. Perhaps one day, you will create, host, or evaluate a curriculum designed for an online distance learning community, if you are not doing that currently or have done so recently. The question that I often ponder is; how can online learning address all learners? Can distance learning encompass a method or design that is dynamic enough to stimulate social learning pathways and collaboration?
"how can online learning address all learners? "
ReplyDeleteA well designed course should work for anyone who wants to learn, and we know how to design effective courses. However, we don't know how to make people want to learn (and it's more complicated than just designing motivating/engaging learning materials).