My Definition of Distance Learning

Before I started this course, I always thought of distance learning as being just as being a matter of convenience. That is basically true, but I also thought that distance learning was a faster and easy way to get a degree. That is a complete misconception that distance learning is easier than the traditional classroom. Many people still see distance learning as being perhaps easier. However, one has to experience the distance education platform to realize that the formal distance education platform is equivalent if not more stringent than the traditional classroom. Moreover, my definition of distance learning before starting this course was just that, learning at a distance. Learning at a distance can take place online or any other medium-- including correspondence through the mail.

However, after reading the resources for the course this week, my definition of distance learning has changed and has become more specific. The definition of distance learning continues to change because technology continues to change the media on which distance learning can take place. Therefore, my revised definition of distance learning is institution-based formal education where the learning group is separated and where interactive telecommunication systems are to connect learners and instructors (Simonson, et al. 2012). This definition incorporates with mine because it defines distance learning as more that just a separation of the teachers and students. It goes on further to say that intellectual separation occurs. According to Simonson, et. al. (2012), intellectual separation basically means that the teacher knows the concepts to be taught and the students do not. Therefore, the distance learning medium will be utilized to decrease this separation.

Distance learning is also institution-based. This does not necessarily mean that the institution has to be a University or a school. However, in modern societies, the institutions can also be corporate as well. In parallel, the fact that distance learning is seen as being institution-based separates it from just being a self-study. Also, many companies are putting their trainings online and asking their employees to complete them at their convenience by a deadline.

As I have mentioned earlier, as the medium over which distance learning occurs changes, then the whole definition of distance education will continue to change. However, Simonson (2011) says that no matter how popular distance education is, it will never replace the traditional classroom. What Simonson and others think will happen is that distance education will enhance traditional classrooms. For example, in the future, more and more classrooms will be able to take virtual fieldtrips as a result of advancements in distance learning (USDLA, 2009). The best part about this is that the classrooms will be able to use their current resources to take their virtual fieldtrips. Therefore, for the most part let alone subscription fees, no other money will need to be spent for this type of distance learning experience.

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

Laureate, Inc. (Producer). (2011). Distance education: The next generation [Vodcast]. Available from Walden University.

United States Distance Learning Association. (2010). usdla.org