The Next Generation of Distance Education

 

 

After reading the three articles by Moller, Huett, Foshay, and Coleman compare and contrast the responses these authors believe there is a need to evolve distance education to the next generation. Do you agree with their positions? Why or why not?

Simonson (2000) explains the functions of the equivalency theory within distance education. Simonson (2000) asserts that distance education must be evolved to the next generation. Dr. Simonson (2000) goes on to state the many benefits of distance education. In the article Simonson (2000) explains how significant it is that instructors creat equivalency learning experiences instead of identical learning experiences and he compares the evolution of distance education to the computer. He explains how far the computer has come over the years, how the technology has grown and therefore asserts that distance education will continue to grow as well. In the article Simonson (2000) develops a four step model for instructors on how to create equivalency in distance education.

Moller, Huett, Foshay, and Coleman (2008) explain what the role of the instructional designer should be in meeting the requirements of distance education. The perspective of these authors differs from the perspectives of Simonson. These authors do not necessarily believe that distance education should evolve, but more so that instructional design professionals should do the evolving. Moller, Huett, Foshay and Coleman (2008) asserts that as there are more technological advances, there are more steps and procedures that need to be taken. Instructors will need to learn more and to recieve proper training.

Simonson (2000), Moller, Huett, Foshay and Coleman (2008) all believe that distance education has the potential to evovle and see how effective distance education is.

It is my belief that distance education has evolved and his evolving.

References

Huett, J., Moller, L., Foshay, W. & Coleman, C. (2008). The evolution of distance education: Implications for instructional design on the potential of the web. 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, 29-35.
 

Laureate Education, Inc. (2008). Principles of Distance Education. Baltimore, MD: Author.