Journal 6: Is Distance Learning Effective?

Journal 6: Is Distance Learning Effective?
Kiekel, J, & Stelacio, D (2008). Is Distance Learning Effective? Bound by Security, 35, Retrieved August 3, 2008, from http://www.iste.org/Content/NavigationMenu/Publications/LL/LLIssues/Volume_35_2007_2008_/September_October_No_2_/35208k.pdf.

In this article two different teachers expose their point of view regarding this issue. The first one, Jean Kiekel, is a firm believer of distance learning and she gives us a good feedback based on her own experience with her students from an online high school advanced placement micro-and macro economics course. “Most of my students score 4or 5 on the exams”, she said. Also, distance learning is effective and helps students around the world. Especially in rural settings where is difficult to find qualified teachers to teach courses in more challenging, upper-level curriculum, distance learning can very useful and productive. It allows students to have a variety of courses, as well as access to the qualified teachers to teach those courses. Another advantage of distance learning is that allows students to develop and used their own learning style in their exploration of a subject. This is important for students who are gifted or have learning disabilities. Well written online programs provide a shell that gives the basics of content.
The other teacher, Diane Stelacio, thinks that since the concept of distance learning is generation old, the feedback from it is slow with limited interaction. According to Stelacio, the distance between the instructor and learners does not increase or decrease effectiveness and interaction. “The focus is the pedagogy used to engage learners instead of the technology used to deliver the content”, she said. Researcher Marguerita McVay Lynch identifies four types of interaction to remove isolation and support the learners. They are: interaction with content, with the instructor, with classmates, and with self. Online interactions are required to be success.
Question 1: What is one of the changes when classrooms change from onsite to online?
One of the change, is the fact that communication became more written. Writing skills strengthen during the education process, because students have to post, share, and review their assignments with peers and teacher. Also, participants learn and strengthen their technologies skills and learner’s growth exceeds the content area.
Question 2: Who benefits and why, with the concept of distance learning?
It is beneficial for students who live in rural areas. Further, students can have qualified teachers and more courses availability. Also, distance learning allows schools to increase the number and depth of courses offered to students without increasing the size of their faculty or school building.