Defining Distance Learning

Defining Distance Learning

Distance learning is defined as “formal education in which the learning group (teacher, students and resources) are separated by geography and sometimes time” (Simonson, Smaldino, Albright, & Zvacek, 2012).  Learning is institutionally based and communication technology, such as the Internet, is used to link participants and resources.  Distance learning requires the support of a “teacher”, who guides and facilitates learning and learning activities.  Distance learning may be delivered though various media, in the form of correspondence, audio, video as well as the more widely accepted Internet based learning modes. 

My own definition does not necessarily involve the learner to be removed by geographic location, but to be removed from “traditional” classroom instruction.  Communication between student and instructor may be synchronous and/or asynchronous, allowing for various arrangements in lesson presentation.  My experience in distance learning involves the geographically detached instructor, asynchronous communication, and a hybrid or blended form of distance learning.  “Blended learning is a hybrid of traditional face-to-face and online learning so that instruction occurs both in the classroom and online, and where the online component becomes a natural extension of traditional classroom learning. Blended learning is thus a flexible approach to course design that supports the blending of different times and places for learning, offering some of the conveniences of fully online courses without the complete loss of face-to-face contact. The result is potentially a more robust educational experience than either traditional or fully online learning can offer” (Rovai & Jordan, 2004).  Learning is institutionally based and communication technology is utilized.

Defining distance learning appears to be more difficult than I initially thought.  The delivery of distance learning as well as the various uses of technology can create a setting that is geographically removed, involves both synchronous and asynchronous communication, and may involve some face-to-face instruction.  It was interesting to see how online learning, blended learning and web facilitated learning are all considered variations of distance learning. 

Distance learning across various professional fields appears to be composed of a similar concept and idea, learning which occurs through technology where student, instructor and materials are separated by geography and time.  There are some variations based upon the profession, although, I do not believe that this is a factor that may impede changes in the advancement of distance education.  Technology appears to be the driving factor of change in distance education. 

Distance learning will evolve at a rapid pace, parallel to various technological advances.  Technology will allow for increased and improved accessibility.  Various devices, such as the tablet, smart phone and other portable information devices, continue to increase our connections to information personally, professionally, as well as educationally.  Several companies, such as Apple and Amazon, have committed to the digitization of educational textbooks, giving the learner convenient, and reliable access to required information.  Economically, distance education may be more cost effective in the long term.  Although the initial implementation of an e-classroom is more expensive, the lasting effect is much more cost effective.

As technology continues to develop so do the various forms of distance education.  Simonson states that distance learning is “becoming widely adopted and approaching critical mass in society”, evolving but not replacing traditional education.  Rather incorporating and blending with more traditional methods.

Reference:

Huett, J., Moller, L., Foshay, W., & Coleman, C. (2008). The evolution of distance education: Implications for instructional design on the potential of the web (Part 3: K12). TechTrends,

Rovai, A., & Jordan, H. (2004). Blended learning and sense of community: A comparative analysis with traditional and fully online graduate courses. The International Review of Research in Open and Distance Learning, 5(2), Retrieved from http://www.irrodl.org/index.php/irrodl/article/view/192/274

Simonson, M. (2012, April) "Distance Education: The Next Generation". [Lecturer]. Laureate Education Inc. Available: Walden University.

Simonson, M., Smaldino, S., Albright, M., & Zvacek, S. (2012). Teaching and learning at a distance: Foundations of distance education (5th ed.) Boston, MA: Pearson.