Distance Learning Overview TBE 518 Fall 2002

What is Distance Learning (DL)? Basic definition: Students and instructor are not in the same physical space at the same time. American Counsel on Education definition: A system and a process of connecting learners with distributed learning resources. AKA distance education, learning anytime/ anywhere, open learning

DL is a new thing…right? Distance learning in the form of correspondence courses has been around for over 200 years. Newer technologies (such as the web) have increased the possibilities for interactivity in DL.

Development of DL Interactivity Passive (1880s -->) –Correspondence, audio/videotape, Radio Passive to Moderately Active (1960s -->) –Two-way interactive audio/video, computer bulletin boards, , computer-based training, audiographics, two-way audio, satellite video (one-way) Highly Interactive (1990s -->) –Multimedia CD-ROMs, web courses, online video, digital multitasking TV, videoconferencing From Williams, M, Paprock, K & Covington, B. (1999). Distance Learning. Thousands Oaks: SAGE. (page 4)

Some DL Vocabulary Synchronous vs. asynchronous Synchronous: delivery and receipt of instruction happen at the same time (e.g. videoconference, chat room) Asynchronous: delivery and receipt of instruction do not necessarily happen at the same time (e.g., online, correspondence)

Some DL Vocabulary Hybrid course: DL course using more than one delivery mode, often includes some face-to- face. Chat room: online conversations where students read messages and respond immediately Discussion board (threaded discussion): online discussions where messages are usually left to be responded to later

Some DL Vocabulary Videoconferencing: synchronous, participants are able to see each other Audioconferencing: synchronous, participants can hear each other Audiographics: audioconferencing with some static visual display capabilities (older technology, not generally in use now)

Some DL Vocabulary Upload/download: transfer files to and from a web server (for online courses) Streaming media: audio or video files sent in a continuous stream from a web server (requires an appropriate “player” program to view) Compressed video: video files stored in a smaller format for ease of transmission, some quality lost

How is DL delivered? There are many delivery modes for DL instruction. –Correspondence (mail) –Online (web, ) –Video (live broadcast or tape) –Voice (tapes, phone, radio) –Print (study guides, workbooks, textbooks) –Multimedia (CD-ROM tutorials) Combinations may be used.

DL Technology Options

Examples of Current DL (Other) schools.com/ (list of correspondence programs) schools.com/ (Coastline Community College DL) (telecourses in Kentucky) (DL in Dallas) (CalStateTeach)

Examples of Current DL (Online) (DominguezOnline at CSUDH) (CSUDH School of Business Online degrees) html (Pepperdine’s Online Ed.D. in Educational Technology) html (World Lecture Hall at University of Texas)

Isn’t DL just for adults? Distance learning is increasingly popular for K-12 students. For example, L. A. County’s TEAMS:

Why would anyone want DL? Saves space (no classrooms necessary). Can fit into schedules of busy people. Students can work at their own pace. People with small children and those with disabilities need not leave home. People who live far away from schools can take courses. Can be used for non-credit training as well as courses for academic credit.

Why doesn’t everyone use DL? Not everyone can learns the same way. Some learning and time management styles are not well-matched with DL. DL requires money for course development. Planning is essential and is not free. Taking a DL course usually takes MORE time, rather than less time, for teacher and student.

Why doesn’t everyone use DL? Because of the need for individual interaction, DL courses should have fewer students (thus, they cost more). The technology can get in the way. Support staff is needed. They may be questions about accreditation. E.g., 3-unit courses in the CSU require 45 contact hours. What if a DL student finishes in 30 hours?

Why doesn’t everyone use DL? There are security issues. E.g., Who is actually taking an online test or turning in materials? If course materials are online, can they be “hacked”? There are copyright issues with the instructor’s own materials (who owns them?) and displaying or posting others’ work online or on video.

How is teaching using DL different from face-to-face? Can’t usually see students, so no “body language messages.” Interaction must be structured, little or no spontaneity (of course, there’s always the chat room). Students need a very clear picture of expectations, since it is harder to ask questions.

How is teaching using DL different from face-to-face? Collaboration between students is more difficult. Class discussions will usually take place in a different way, often asynchronously. What are some other potential differences you can think of?