Technology plays a large role in online learning
because it assumes the characteristics of a traditional learning environment. Technology not only enhances the presentation
of the content by giving students means to view information in an audio visual
format but it also allows students to create final products that exhibit their learning.
Technology also provides distance
education with flexibility and accessibility. Boettcher and Conrad (2010)
explain that with today’s technology such as smartphones, IPods, and other
mobile devices learners have many options on who will they learn from and where
education will take place (p.8).
Assessment is also facilitated through the use of technology. Assessment
can be continuous and allow students to learn from their work rather completing
an assignment for the sole purpose of a grade.
With online quizzes, tests, and discussion posts, students can receive quick
feedback that will guide them through the course content. Flexibility is also a
benefit from the use of technology because it allows students to communicate easily
across distance as well as participate in a course asynchronously.
There are many considerations that an instructor
must take into account before implementing technology. For instance, an instructor must motivate the
students as well as meet the needs of their learner from the onset of the
course. Boettcher and Conrad (2010)
describe this aspect Phase 1, in which instructors begin to construct a
background knowledge of their students to better engage their learning and build
relationships to support their learning. Phase 2, called “Keeping the Ball
Rolling” in which the instructor must consider how to continually guide and challenge
students as they establish a weekly schedule. Lastly in Phase 3, called “
Letting Go of the Power,” the instructor must consider how to teach their students to take the information they
learned to extended it beyond the constraints of the classroom.
Usability and accessibility is a double edged sword. The benefits of technology is that it allows
students and instructors to access work from anywhere at any time, in essence
creating their own schedule. This opens
doors to many students who live in countries where education is limited due to
remote locations or political constraints.
However working with technology can also become frustrating when
machines do not work as we would want them too. Conrad and Donaldson (2011)
explain, “ it is important to provide instructions in advance for an alternate
class activity in case the synchronous session is interrupted due to network
problems(p. 25).” As an instructor, it is important to understand that access
and usability may sometimes stall course work.
The technological tools that are most
appealing to me are course management systems and how they could be used in a
blended education setting as well as the use of games and simulations to teach
content. As a high school teacher, I
strive to infuse as much technology into the classroom as possible to engage my
students as well as support their learning.
Even though currently my district has limited access to technology, I
want to incorporate what I can to motivate and challenge my students.
In summary, distance education could not be
possible without the technology that has been brought to the fore front. Technology offers students many opportunities
that would have never been possible before. It has given a new face to
education that will bring profound effects to accessibility in attaining higher
levels of education.
Resources
Boettcher, J. V., & Conrad, R. (2010). The online teaching
survival guide: Simple and practical pedagogical tips. San Francisco, CA:
Jossey-Bass.
Conrad, R., & Donaldson, J. A. (2011). Engaging
the online learner: Activities and resources for creative instruction
(Updated ed.). San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass.
Arianna
ReplyDeleteYou make a good point how technology impacts learning in distance education and how it provides flexibility and accessibility, would you agree that technology is now and forever the future in learning? Just think, even K-12 online schools utilize technology to teach and learn. Although online learning is still being criticized by some, it opens doors for many who may not be able to travel to campus for whatever reason and/or just want other another options learning. We live in a day where people want information fast and hurried. I don't necessary believe its one group. However, our youth don't know anything, but technology so they are one specific group that wants to obtain knowledge through the use of technology such as Smartphone, IPods, and other technologies. Great insight!
Michelle