Distance Learning

Distance Learning

Distance learning (education) has become an integral part of the education process over the past few decades and is growing in popularity as technology advances.(Willis 1992) describes distance education (as) "the organizational framework andprocess of providing instruction at a distance. Distance education takes place when ateacher and student(s) are physically separated, and technology…(is) used to bridge theinstruction gap." (Coutts 1996). Furthermore, "distance learning activities are designedto fit the specific context for learning, the nature of the subject matter; intended learningoutcomes, needs and goals of the learner, the learner's environment and the instructional echnologies and methods." (American Council of Education 1996).

According to Moore and Thompson (1990), there are essential elements needed for effective distance learning to take place:

*Be prompt in coming online and insist students do the same.

*Use a natural style of delivery; speak slowly and enunciate clearly.

*Maintain spontaneity, avoid reading from a script.

*Use visuals effectively.

*Use frequent changes of pace to maintain interest.

*Frequently draw participants into discussions.

*Always refer to participants by name.

*Give short concluding summaries of the concepts presented.

*Provide structure by effectively using authority.

*Control verbal traffic.

*Provide socio-emotional support by integrating late group members and encouraging humor.

*Establish a democratic atmosphere by sharing authority and asking for participation.

*Create a sense of shared space and history.

*Model appropriate behavior.

*Seek and clarify a common definition of terms.

*Set an appropriate pace (Mo...

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...ournal of Distance Education .

Moore, Michael G. & Thompson, Melody M. (1990) The Effects of Distance Learning. A Summary of Literature. (Research Monograph, Number 2). Southern Ohio Telecommunications Consortium.

Moore, Michael G. (1989, June). Distance Education: A Learning System. Lifelong Learning. pg. 8--11. "Distance Education: A Learning System."

Simonson, M. (1997). Distance Education: Does Anyone Really Want to Learn At A Distance. Contemporary Education, 68. Page 104--107.

Willis, B. (1998, Jan-Feb). Effective Distance Education Planning: Lessons Learned. Educational Technology.

Willis, B. (1994). Distance Education: Strategies and Tools. New Jersey:Educational Technology Publications.

Willis B. (1992). Effective Distance Education: A Primer for Faculty and Administrators. Monograph Series in Distance Education. 2