Distance Learning in 2020

Origins of Distance Learning

     Week One of course EDUC 6135: Distance Learning, has presented the evolution of the aforementioned learning concept and the many benefits that it has provided for almost 200 years. Yes...you read it correctly; distance learning has been around since the 1800s. In 2020, the idea of distance learning typically involves technology-based learning occurring in virtual portals over the internet. In the early1800s, the first form of distance learning was implemented by sir Issac Pitman, creating correspondence study with learners at home through the use of the public mailing system, then known as penny posts (Simonson, Smaldino, & Zvacek, 2015). Although small, this learning method was revolutionary, shifting over the years to our most recent mode, which is electronic communication. 

 

What is Distance Learning? Why Does Its Meaning Always Change?

 

     The readings have displayed various definitions of distance learning that have emerged over the years, so it has been difficult to pinpoint. No matter the definition, the principles of distance learning are rooted in the four components below by Simonson, Smaldino, & Zvacek (2015, pp. 32-33):

• Institutionally Based - learning implemented through a college or university 
• Geographic Separation - teachers and students are separated by location and time
• Interactive Telecommunication - the methods by which the learning is attained, whether synchronous or asynchronous, depending on the time it is accessed
• Sharing of Data, Voice, and Video (Learning Experiences) - determines how learners, instructors, content, and any resources or materials actually connect to form the learning interaction 

 

     Why does the definition change? Technically, the definition has not changed. Each of the four principles has evolved to meet the needs of the learners at the time. Distance Learning has now grown beyond college/university settings and moved into the corporate sector. With the onset of COVID-19 worldwide, many organizations, whether it is academic, corporate, or governmental are shifting their learning online. The ideals of geographic separation have enhanced access for both instructors and learners, with the accessibility to teach or learn can be remote from anywhere across the globe. Telecommunication has evolved greatly with the use of online programming such as our virtual platforms like Walden’s online program to communicate through sites and software such as Slack, Zoom, and Google Meet. Resources are now readily available through email, linking in chat rooms during virtual meetings, and email. 

 

     My time participating in distance learning programs through Walden University have given      me the foundation of my idea of this learning approach. The MIDT program is my second online program, and my observations have been very similar throughout each program. Distance learning has been a helpful way for me to further my educational aspirations. Conflicts with my work schedule have led me to enroll in online programs and it is convenient to access and participate within the confines of the required hours. When thinking of distance learning, the definition that comes to mind is the use of technology to make courses accessible to all learners. After this week’s readings, my definition has not changed much. 

 

Future of Distance Learning 

 

     A few years ago, Lowell estimated that “25 percent of learners are expected to be online-only by 2020” (Training Industry, 2018). With COVID-19 virtually 

shutting down learning as we know it, this prediction is easily obliterated, as now the push is to determine how online learning can be designed to keep K-12 and collegiate learning pursuits available. I believe the possibilities for distance learning is boundless. It is no longer an option we can opt out of. The need for distance learning is extremely vital now and it will continue to flourish as tools will be crafted to help continue learning for billions of learners whose opportunities have been changed forever by the pandemic. 

Below is a breakdown of my perception of distance learning in 2020:

References:

Lowell, A. (2018). The Past, Present, and Future of Distance Learning. Training  

Industry. Retrieved from https://trainingindustry.com/articles/remote-learning/the-past-present-and-future-of-distance-learning/#:~:text=The%20Future&text=Additionally%2C%2025%20percent%20of%20learners,about%2C%20from%20their%20own%20homes.

 

Simonson, M., Smaldino, S., & Zvacek, S. M. (2014). Teaching and Learning at a Distance: Foundations of Distance Education, 6th Edition (6TH ed.). Charlotte, NC: Information Age Publishing.