Technologies for Distance Education

Distance learning can be delivered in many formats and instructional designers need to choose the most appropriate method based on the learning need. As stated by Simonson, Smaldino, Albright and Zvacek “it is imperative that educators think about how communication will occur and how to apply experiences that will promote effective and efficient learning.” (pg. 94) Technologies to consider for delivering training in a distance learning environment include: 1) correspondence study (mail, discussion boards, live chats), 2) prerecorded media (mpg files such as podcasts), 3) two-way audio (audio conferencing), 4) two-way audio with graphics (audio conferencing with graphic component such as a displayboard , 5) one-way live video (televised broadcasts with printed materials and readings), 6) two-way audio, one way video (teleconferences), 7) two-way audio/video (videoconferences), and 8) desktop two-way audio/video (videoconferencing through the computer).

I have been presented with a training need for which I must recommend the most effective technology or technologies to use to ensure effective training. Below is my scenario and recommended training method(s) for providing asynchronous training.

Scenario:

In an effort to improve its poor safety record, a biodiesel manufacturing plant needs a series of safety training modules. These stand-alone modules must illustrate best practices on how to safely operate the many pieces of heavy machinery on the plant floor. The modules should involve step-by-step processes and the method of delivery needs to be available to all shifts at the plant. As well, the shift supervisors want to be sure the employees are engaged and can demonstrate their learning from the modules.

Recommendation:

Providing training to a 24/7 organization is never easy. However, with advances in technology this is becoming easier. Based on the above situation, it is imperative that all employees are properly trained on operating machinery in a safe manner. While I have not been provided with the details of my learner audience, I am going to assume they are of varying learning abilities, and may be English as a Second Language learner. As a result, my method of providing the training modules will be the use of prerecorded media. Each week a video will be presented to all employees via a prerecorded video presented via television through a DVD player. In addition, all employees will be provided written material that explains the training techniques. These written materials will also include a concept map or algorithm on the proper steps to use machinery. Also, because this is a safety concern and there is a need for supervisors to observe the employees using the equipment effectively, each employee will need to be observed using the equipment effectively by a shift supervisor. I believe this training methodology will apply to all learner types in that they will all hear, see it and do it.

Rationale:

The use of video demonstration is an effective means of training. In a study of students being provided CPR training via video, it has been documented that video is an effective means of training and demonstrating proper techniques. The article “Simply Watching a Video Might Save Lives”, Holohan discusses how individuals who watched the video on proper CPR techniques were more effective in providing CPR than those who had not seen the video.

Concept maps are effective learning tools in ensuring a meaningful learning experience. Novak, J. and Canas, A., describe effective development and use of concept maps in distance learning. They define concept maps as a method of organizing and representing knowledge in a realistic manner. The concept map will be used to graphically demonstrate the steps to effectively use the machinery.

Conclusion:

I believe a video demonstration along with a visual concept map (algorithm) to be the most effective methods of training. In addition, a return demonstration by the learner is the most effective method to ensure the transfer of knowledge.

References:

Simonson, M., Smaldino, S., Albright, M., & Zvacek, S. (2009). Teaching and learning at a distance: Foundations of distance education (4th ed.) Boston, MA: Pearson.

http://www.uwex.edu/disted/conference/Resource_library/proceedings/09_20011.pdf

http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=140562

Distance Learning

I always believed distance learning to be exactly what I am doing with my studies at Walden University; pursuing a degree at a distance through an online environment. My definition of distance learning was limited to education offered by an accredited educational institution. I believed distance learning to be a relatively new concept (less than 30 years) only to find out through course readings that it has existed since the 1800's.

In the 1800's distance learning was offered via mail correspondence, 1960's via telephone, 1970's via videotape, 1980's via satellite TV and online courses through the use of DOS (Disc Operating System), and the 1990's via the virtual classroom (which is what I related my definition to). So while it may be difficult to totally define distance learning, I define it as learning away from the traditional classroom.

To me distance learning was synonymous with e-learning and on-line learning. However, I defined it as being related to higher education, or at least associated with an accredited institution. Yet in my own work environment we offer online continuing education (aka e-learning) through our Learning Management System (LMS). So do we all define distance learning interchangeably with e-learning and online learning? Maybe this is why it is difficult to define distance learning or decide on a theory of how to practice and research distance education. (Simonson, Smaldino, Albright and Zvacek, 2009; pg. 57)

Now this brings into question another concept; is distance learning different from web-based training? Webopedia.com associates distance learning with providing college-level education and web-based training with business training. But when looking at the definition of web-based training it is similar to the definition of distance learning, leading me to stay with my initial belief that distance learning is synonymous with e-learning, online learning and now web-based learning.

I now look at distance learning as any learning at a distance from the instructor. I do not think my definition is much different from my original thought, just more defined and I now realize it is not restricted to just an educational institution but any learning environment. In addition, the method of distance learning can vary; it can take place via mail correspondence, telephone, video conference, Internet, videotape, web-based, discussion board, etc. I think Hilary Perraton sums it up quite well by defining distance learning "as an educational process in which a significant portion of the teaching is conducted by someone removed in space and/or time from the learner. (Simonson et al, pg. 33)

Distance learning will continue to evolve just like anything. More and more colleges will offer distance learning making it easier to study abroad without travelling abroad and meet the changing needs that has come with globalization. They will have the ability to attract students who otherwise would not be able to attend the traditional educational environment due to personal/economic factors. Distance learning will provide 24/7 education to a diverse population. Traditional corporate training will move to distant learning as it is more cost effective. What is yet to be seen is how distance learning will advance and change, i.e. mobile learning, to continue to meet the demands of our ever changing environment.

References:

Simonson, M., Smaldino, S., Albright, M., & Zvacek, S. (2009). Teaching and learning at a distance: Foundations of distance education (4th ed.) Boston, MA: Pearson.

Dr. Simonson Video Presention: "Distance Education: The Next Generation"

http://www.webopedia.com/TERM/D/distance_learning

View the Future of Distance Learning Video from the Digital Learning 2010 Virtual Conference
http://youtu.be/xIfrlF7LPoY