Perceptions of Distance Education in the Future

According to Gambescia & Paolucci, (2009), “the number of students participating in college-level online courses has out-distanced all other forms of distance learning, in a remarkably short amount of time”. Distance education has been increasingly growing acceptance throughout the last few years (Siemens, 2010). In the previous five years, distance learning has gained believers and disbelievers. Some individuals believe that distance learning is not comparable to the traditional method of learning. I believe the perceptions of distance learning in the next five to twenty years will positively improve. I foresee that in the future, distance learning will be relied upon more than the traditional method of face-to-face instruction. The advancements in technology have facilitated the adaptation of online and distance learning and have enabled learners from all places to take advantage of this advancement.

Distance learning will continue to evolve in the next 10-20 years as technology improves and evolves. Distance education will individuals from all parts of the world to obtain education, whether related to school or a corporate environment. There are; however, challenges that must be surpassed. A key challenge that must be surpassed is the “bridging the gap of comfort” (Siemens, 2010). Learners must become used to and comfortable with learning online. This will enable that learners become adapted to this method and make use of the resources that are available using online learning. I believe that most courses and programs will be facilitated online in the next five to ten years.

As an Instructional Designer, I can be a proponent for improving societal perceptions of distance learning by designing and facilitating effective and efficient instruction in all settings I facilitate. it is important that effective and efficient online instruction and curriculum preparation is demonstrated in order to improve societal perceptions of distance education. Instructional Design professionals must understand what motivates students and the outcomes desired for the learner. It will also be important that the ID professional understands the need of students and define precise goals for designing and effective facilitating of the curriculum. ID professionals must also be personally educated and prepared in order to effectively design instruction. In addition, an ID professional must be aware and knowledgeable of the technology available as well as the needs, factors affecting and availability of resources for learners to access the curriculums. Without technology available to learners, learners will not be able to participate in the lessons. A lack of understanding of the technology and needs will detrimentally affect the delivery of the instruction.

As an Instructional Designer, I will be a positive force for continuous improvements in the field of distance education by ensuring that the incorrect perceptions of distance education are corrected. I will design effective instruction that addresses the needs of my learners. I will ensure that while designing instruction, I understand how accessible the lesson is and will ensure to do all possible to provide accessibility to resources to the learners. I will continue researching and educating myself in the new discoveries, improvements, and enhancements of distance education so that I can be a resource to others in the field.  I will also ensure that all the lessons learned throughout my program at Walden University are effectively applied to the lessons and instruction I create. I will promote the use of innovation and technology in future designing and will collaborate with professionals who can enhance my knowledge and skills in the field.

 References

Gambescia, S., & Paolucci, R. (2009). Academic fidelity and integrity as attributes of university online degree program offerings. Online Journal of Distance Learning Administration, 12(1). Retrieved from http://www.westga.edu/~distance/ojdla/spring121/gambescia121.html

Siemens, G. (2010). The Future of Distance Education. Laureate Education. Video.