Defining Distance Learning

"Numerous definitions of distance education have been proposed.  Most include the separation of teacher and learner, the opportunity for two-way communication, and the practice of individualized instruction.  The traditional definitions describe distance education as taking place at a different time in a different place, whereas recent definitions enabled by new interactive technologies, stress education that takes place at the same time but in different place" (Simonson, Smaldino, Albright & Zvacek, 2012).

"Changes in society, politics, economics and technology are impacting the status of distance education around the world.  Students in rural or isolated parts of the world look to distance education for opportunities to "keep up" with the outside world.  Technology advances are a major influence for change in distance education worldwide.  The globalization of the world enabled by these new technologies will challenge distance educators to rethink the practice of distance education to take advantage of these new opportunities" (Simonson, Smaldino, Albright & Zvacek, 2012).

"An environment in which technology, society, economies, politics and theories of learning are all in transition suggests that definition, theories and the practice of distance education will continue to be contested. This theme of change will both challenge and motive distance educators and researchers as they strive to understand and develop effective ways to meet the needs of learners around the world" (Simonson, Smaldino, Albright & Zvacek, 2012).

The distance learning perspective that I take is that this process is unique in helping students meet their goals for obtaining diplomas as well as college degrees.  The virtual classroom has and is offering students an opportunity of two worlds.  One is to be taught by a teacher face to face within a classroom.  Another is to be taught within their home through virtual school on the internet.

The vision that I foresee regarding distance learning is the impact that it will have on working parents and students of all ages.  Working parents will have the opportunity to take courses online at home and earn a diploma or college degree.  In today's society, a diploma is a must whereas a college degree is also becoming a must for certain pay scales.  Distance learning will continuously grow as technology advances.

Reference:

Simonson, M., Smaldino, S., Albright, M., & Zvacek, S. (2012). Teaching and learning at a distance: Foundations of distance education (5th ed.) Boston, MA: Pearson.