Not considering DE as a practice hadn't really occured to me prior to some readings over the last module. In chapters 11 & 12 of Holmbergs The Evolution, Priciples and Practices of Distance Education and chapter 1 of Peters Distance Education in Transistion made me aware that I have taken the field of DE for granted. Even from its early beginnings, the growth of learners seeking DE options either to meet thier demanding schedules or due to a physical seperation from a education institution has made DE essential. Imagining a world without DE doesn't even seem possible. What would I be doing now without the study of DE? Working for duel mode institution but in the "Global Campus" (a term for distance education division) I have the opportunity to see a lot of the good and bad of DE. Often people compare DE with "traditional" education, but can the two really be compared?
The criteria for recognizing a field of sudy by Sparkes provided in chapter 12 of Holmberg was interesting, DE is certianly growing in relevence and experiencing important problems that are unlike those in f2f education. However, I believe that the theories practiced in quality DE are based on pedagogy also used in f2f. Perhaps particular theories are utilzed more often and geared towards the technologies available. It becomes a thought that perhaps one day f2f education will be consider prehistoric and DE traditional.
Recently particular DE institutions have come under scrutiny regarding the practices used and the relativness of the degrees awarded. Without those who study methodology and evaluate practices to provide feedback then all of DE may be seen in this negative light. There are DE institutions who are doing great work, some that are improving based on evaluation, and others that have yet to be ready to put the student first.
It is only because of those who are interested in the field of DE that DE can be given a reputable name. To be able to show that both teaching and learning occurs, and often occurs on a deeper level then f2f, is necessary. DE is here to stay, it is in constant and growing demand, it is an interesting and exciting field be part of.
I got turned around and posted this to my blog rather than my wiki, a lot of new applications coming my way at the same time, sorry. Not deleting it from the blog but will update the blog with a comment and add applicable input there. Confused? I am, but "we'll all float on okay". (Modest Mouse)
ReplyDeleteI have a blog and wiki too! :) Are you also in OMDE 601?? I have to post to my Wiki soon...It's been neglected.
ReplyDeleteI like this post. I agree with you that DE is here to stay. Some schools and educators need work and practice. They need to step outside the box and present material in creative ways to keep student's attention.
What kind of job to you hope to obtain after you graduate? I am really interested in course design or teaching DE classes.