Static-Dynamic Map
Distance education, while becoming very popular as a course medium, is continuously challenged to provide a learning environment that is similar to that of face to face instruction. Since, first introduced the media tools available to make distance education successful has grown and continues to grow. They provide ways for the learners to interact with the course content (Moller, 2008). However, as we move along the static-dynamic continuum, we are looking to increase the cognitive abilites of the learners. The focus is not only on how learners will interact within the course, but to some extent, what learners will develop from their exploration of content and resources that leads to knowledge not provided by the instructor. As I reflect on my experience in the distance education setting, I think I'm in the middle of the continuum. Much of my experience has been interacting with others during the learning process of a given course. I have been able to further my career as a result, but I'm ready to step it up another notch.
References:
Moller, L. (2008). Static and dynamic technological tools. [Unpublished Paper].
Sunday, August 28, 2011
Saturday, August 20, 2011
Engaging Learners with New Strategies and Tools
Graphic Organizer
As technology evolves and distance education becomes more of a norm, it is important to recognize the importance of these technological tools in the learning environment. It is always feared that online learning does not provide the same value as the traditional face-to-face instruction, however, if technology is properly implemented within the curriculum then one could argue that point. We must embrace socialization within the distance community. Social networks are a very popular communication tool today and can be very useful in distance learning. Establishing such an evironment within a learning community allows for shared knowledge and constant feedback. In addition to social networks, blogs, chat-rooms and email can be useful. There is more content related material available on podcasts and video that can be incorportated into the learning envrionment too. No matter which technology is chosen, it must provide opportunities for students to interact with each other and the instructor in order for a successful learning experience.
Reference:
Durrington, V. A., Berryhill, A., & Swafford, J. (2006). Strategies for enhancing student interactivity in an online environment. College Teaching, 54(1), 190−193
As technology evolves and distance education becomes more of a norm, it is important to recognize the importance of these technological tools in the learning environment. It is always feared that online learning does not provide the same value as the traditional face-to-face instruction, however, if technology is properly implemented within the curriculum then one could argue that point. We must embrace socialization within the distance community. Social networks are a very popular communication tool today and can be very useful in distance learning. Establishing such an evironment within a learning community allows for shared knowledge and constant feedback. In addition to social networks, blogs, chat-rooms and email can be useful. There is more content related material available on podcasts and video that can be incorportated into the learning envrionment too. No matter which technology is chosen, it must provide opportunities for students to interact with each other and the instructor in order for a successful learning experience.
Reference:
Durrington, V. A., Berryhill, A., & Swafford, J. (2006). Strategies for enhancing student interactivity in an online environment. College Teaching, 54(1), 190−193
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)