My Definition
In
my opinion distance learning means convenience. In other words, learn anything
anywhere using the Web. Distance learning is made convenient for homebound
students, working parents, by saving money and time.
Text’s Definition
Distance learning is a growing trend in education
and training and is rapidly transforming the field of instructional design.
Distance education can be defined as formal education in which the learning
group (teacher, students, resources) are separated by geography and, sometimes,
by time” (Laureate Education, Inc.,). Simonson, Smaldino, Albright, and Zvacek,
(2012, p. 32) states, “Distance education was defined as institution-based,
formal education where the learning group is separated, and where interactive
telecommunications systems are used to connect learners, resources, and
instructors”.
New
information I learned this week
Simonson, Smaldino, Albright, and Zvacek, (2012, p.
32) states, “There are four main components to the definition of distance
education. They are Institutionally Based, Separation of Teacher and
Student, Interactive
Telecommunications, and Sharing of Data, Voice, and Video(Learning
Experiences).
Institutionally
Based-
is what differentiates distance education from self-study. The institution referred to be a traditional
educational school or college, nontraditional institutions that offer education
to students at a distance are increasingly emerging (Simonson, Smaldino,
Albright, and Zvacek, 2012, p. 33).
Separation of Teacher and Student-This
term is reference to Asynchronous distance education. Means that instruction is
offered and students access it at separate times, or anytime it is convenient to
them (Simonson, Smaldino, Albright, and Zvacek, 2012, p. 33).
Interactive Telecommunications-This
term refers to the both synchronous and asynchronous communications. It is important that learners be able to
interact with each other, with resources of instruction, and with their teacher
at the same time or at different times (Simonson, Smaldino, Albright, and
Zvacek, 2012, p. 34).
Connection
of learners, resources and Instructors- This area refers to the
concepts of sharing data, voice, and video (Learning Experiences). Means that
there are instructors who interact with learners and that resources are
available that permit learning to occur (Simonson, Smaldino, Albright, and
Zvacek, 2012, p. 34).
Future
of distance learning
The vision I have for
distance learning is technology is rapidly growing and becoming more
advanced.
My Mind Map
References
Simonson,
M., Smaldino, S., Albright, M., & Zvacek, S. (2012). Teaching and learning
at a distance: Foundations of distance education (5th ed.) Boston, MA:
Pearson.
Chapter 2, "Definitions, History, and Theories of Distance
Education" (pp. 32–41 only)