Global Diversity

How has this element evolved? What online tools are available today for global learners? I agree with Dr. Siemens (2008) that distance learning enables me to communicate with people around the world thus encouraging my own knowledge globalization. The nature of distance learning took hold and grew with Internet access. The difference in time zones is not as noticeable when I am completing assignments and discussion deadlines. The available technology concerning applications has grown over the years. Just as we are blogging other applications include WordPress, Wikispaces, Linkedin, Ning and TypePad just to name a few. Skype™ can also be used for promoting face-to-face communications since it is using the Internet infrastructure for streaming video feeds. All of these technological advances has impacted how and what is learned. Now I just received an email from Skype stating a new feature has been added. The new Skype feature is called GroupMe which enables a group of people to chat using their cell phone and the service is free. This feature could be used in group learning communities in realtime discussions or group collaborations. I received Siemens (2011) eLearning Resources and News blog summary email weekly. The September 1, 2011 issue identified how massive open online courses are becoming popular. He cites Stanford University open online course on Artificial Intelligence as an example of the next stage in education. The course begins with a video consisting of several instructors who say they want to teach the world. Siemens also stated that the next level for education is ripe for global connectedness. Laureate Education, Inc. (2008). The Future of Distance Education. Baltimore, Author.

Evolution of Distance Education

Is there a need to evolve distance education to the next generation? Simonson (2000) suggests equivalency theory as the component for evolving to the next generation of distance learning. One of the important factors is the technology variable paired with the variable of teaching style or pedagogy. The technology and pedagogy will evolve which will force the next generation of distance learning to evolve. The important factor is how and what technology is diffused in online curriculum designed so as to enhance the learning experience and provide equivalence. In contrast to Simonson, Huett et al., (2008) stated that distance learning has to evolve in order to serve the needs of the students which will also evolve. The needs of one generation of students may not be the same as the next generation of students. The authors feel that instructional designers need to partner with instructors to create dynamic and engaging distance learning environments. This is a major factor for the next generation of students. In my analysis of the variables all the authors are correct in that distance learning evolution will be done based on new technology that is appropriate for diffusion into online lesson plans, the culture of the student in adapting to online learning skills and emerging pedagogy styles used by instructors. Huett et al. (2007) agree that the next generation is dependent on features and design of the online course. Simonson (2000) point out how technology paired with instructional style impacts the quality of online learning. Do I agree with their positions? Collectively I agree with all of the authors positions in a comprehensive theoretical way. The next generation distance learning environment requires: 1. Appropriate pairing of technology with pedagogy. 2. Specific definition of measurable learning outcomes. 3. Course features for achieving learning outcomes. 4. The amount of time students engage in online course activities. All of these variables are required for successful online learning so collectively I am in agreement with all of the authors positions. Currently students use blogging, twitter, linkedIn, Skype, email, Google doc/reader, Ning and Wikispaces to communicate, collaborate and share information. Future technology will provide other applications that allow students to communicate, collaborate and share information which will have impact on the next generation of distance learning. References Huett, J., Moller, L., Foshay, W. & Coleman, C. (2008, September/October). The evolution of distance education: Implications for instructional design on the potential of the Web (Part 3: K12). TechTrends, 52(5), 63–67. Simonson, M. (2000). Making decisions: The use of electronic technology in online classes. New Directions for Teaching and Learning, 84, 29–34.