Discussion
Last quarter we were asked to identify a new wave based on Alvin Toffler's wave theory. There are several names and suggestions for that new wave. Similar to the idea of progression and ability to separate time or initiatives this assignment asks us to examine a possible next generation of distance learning.
Education and learning, in general, is a process that evolves. There is change and then review of change to identify the strengths and weaknesses of the intended goals. The goals achieved by the innovation were they pertinent or real to the people involved. Moller, Foshay, & Huett begin their set of articles by explaining that Instructional Design will evolve, "but also to assure that the products of sound professional design practice lead the e-learning enterprise" (p. 70).
One aspect of indentify the positives and negatives of the elearning, espeically at the pace it has expanded is identifing some differences. Simonson discusses the difference between self learning via technology mediums and learning by facilitation that is not different. The learning is practiced separated by time and space, but the learning remains meaningful as it is suppose to be in a classroom setting.
Laureate Education, Inc. (2008). Principles of Distance Education. Baltimore: Author.
Moller, L., foshay, W., & Huett, J. (2008, May/June). The evolution of distance education: Implications for instructional design on the potential of the Web (Part1: Training and Development). Tech Trends, 52(3), 70-75.
I am on the road a lot. I post and edit often usually in the beginning of the week.
Hi Deborah. Your blog is looking great!
ReplyDeleteTim.
Hi Debi,
ReplyDeleteDistance education is only going to succeed if quality learning experiences are provided, and sound instructional design principles and practices are needed to ensure this happens.
Moller, Foshay, and Huett (cited above) also suggested the need to develop assessment tools that are capable of clearly measuring learning outcomes. Business are particularly interested in returns on investments (ROI), but while that was a concern cited in the article and a necessary consideration, I wonder if the need to develop more effective assessment measures in all training-type education needs a serious overhaul. I have attended many professional development workshops over the years at my school, and, to be honest, there have been many where I consider my "seat" cost to be an extreme waste of money. Either I had been through the same training multiple times, had already sought the training on my own time, or had already developed my practice to include and use the "new" strategy.
I think distance education may provide more ROI by allowing more choice and thereby giving professionals a greater voice in their own professional development needs. By choosing learning/training opportunities that will benefit them, the training will be more than just "seat time."
Cheers,
Margaret
Margaret,
ReplyDeleteI agree about the opportunities distance education has in many areas. I also think it depends in the individuals input; however, it might also depend in their comfort with tech. The the collaborative effort can aid with the enthusiams and understanding for all members of the group.
Thanks
Debi
I also took the course examining Toffler's wave theory and found it fascinating! My theory is that we are just beginning this wave, not cresting it. I do not believe it is a short wave as others do, I think there is a lot more evolution of technology.
ReplyDeleteI, too, took the class about the evolution of educational technology. I believe the invention of the Internet caused a shift in what was Toffler's third wave into what I more agree with Dr. Thornburg as a Communication Wave. It's not only been the new technologies but how we are using them to communicate.
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