Reflection of Distance Learning

This week’s course assignment is to reflect on my learning in this course and the presentation by Dr. Siemens.  I am going to reflect on the current and future perceptions of distance learning in our society.

If I think back 5 or 10 years, the notion of distance learning was not a popular choice.  I remember that there were a few courses offered, but most of my friends and colleagues did not elect to take them.  Distance education has grown in popularity in the last few years and people’s perceptions of a distance learning degree have also improved.

I think that in the future, distance learning will be more widely recognized and that more learning will be taken through a distance education courses. Due to the advances in technology, distance learning will be a popular way to complete education and training.  George Siemens stated that he believes there will be growing acceptance of distance education due to the increase in online communication, practical experience with new tools and growing comfort with online discourse. (Laureate Education, nd)

As an instructional designer, I will be a proponent for improving societal perceptions of distance learning by creating engaging courses that provide tools for the learner to increase his or her knowledge.  Some people have had negative views of distance learning due to the course being designed poorly.  I can help students have a good view of distance learning by ensuring the success of the course and the students involved in it.

To be a positive force for continuous improvement in the field of distance education, I will make sure to keep up to date on emerging technologies that can be used for students.  I will also ensure that the courses I design as an instructional designer use the emerging technologies and are up to date.  George Siemens states that distance education will be impacted by new communication technologies, contributions by experts around the world, and increased use of multimedia, games and simulations. (Laureate Education, nd)