REFLECTION
As I reflect on the Distance Learning course information
that I’ve learned in the past eight weeks, I know that I have gained an immense
amount of knowledge in a very short time. I wish the course was longer so I
could have time to design a complete distance learning course. There were so
many components that enhanced this positive experience which included the
discussions, the applications and the course project. I have a better
appreciation for distance learning instructors because there is a lot of
preparation and work that goes into developing a successful project and
learning experience.
What do you think the
perceptions of distance learning will be in the future (5-10 years; 10-20
years)?
I think the overall perceptions about distance learning in
the future will be positive because more people would have experienced at least
one distance learning class in the next 5-10 years. Dr. Siemens said as people
get more comfortable using distance learning there will be an increase for
these types of classes. He also stated “The ability to communicate with diverse
and global groups” is a positive aspect of distance learning. I think so as
well but some classes that require certain hands on procedures will continue to
be taught in classroom environments.
Most think distance learning will be the only way of
learning in the future but I don’t think so. There will still be a need for
classrooms and technology will be another tool used to convey the information. The
blended classes are another avenue that could be used for learners to familiarize
themselves with the different technologies that are available. Some technologies
are currently being used in our personal life, for instance, providing communication
between family members, friends and colleagues like using social media, Skype
and Google hangout just to name a few. These technologies will also provide the
comfort level that learners need before enrolling into distance learning classes
in the future.
How can you as an
instructional designer be a proponent for improving societal perceptions in
distance learning?
I can continue to improve my professional development by
expanding my knowledge to other businesses outside of the government. I can
share and implement some of the technology skills that I’ve learned in course
development with colleagues and others to give them an idea of the benefits of
this type of learning. Maybe some will become interested in taking classes to
determine if this is a learning environment they can become accustomed to.
I have been working in the government sector a long time which
has provided a comfort level for me. I have also experienced working in a
community college but not in a teaching capacity. Even then I noticed the
difference in teaching methods with adult learners in the armed forces vise
other educational institutions. The armed forces has a standardized way of
presenting information and it takes years for changes to be implemented, but
college environments seems to allow some leeway in using technology to convey
course information and to keep the students engaged. I have to step out of my
comfort zone and take on new challenges and show colleagues some positive
aspects of distance learning.
How will you be a
positive force for continuous improvement in the field of distance education?
I will continue to be creative and develop new ways to use
technology in distance learning and blended course development. In the future
there will be an increase use of multimedia, games and simulations (Laureate
Education) which I would enjoy implementing in future courses. Assigned a
mentor and shadowing more experienced distance learning instructors would be a
fantastic way to become more efficient as an instructional designer. Follow the
preparation process through to teaching a distance education class would be
ideal. I will continue to acquire more experience using a Content Management Systems
so I can design an effective and engaging distance learning course where both
the learner and I can acquire knowledge and skills from. I would enjoy being in a position where I can
share all of my education and continuously reinvent my skills so I can be an
excellent instructional designer. Associations for instructional designers/
teachers are a great platform to be affiliated with as well.
References
Laureate Education (Producer). (n.d.). The future of distance
education [Dr. George Siemens]. Retrieved from https://class.waldenu.edu
http://blog.idonethis.com/self-reflection/
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