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The following
are some of the factual elements that describe the rapid
growth of distance learning and its applications.
USDLA defines
distance learning as the acquisition of knowledge and
skills through mediated information and instruction. Distance
learning encompasses all technologies and supports the
pursuit of life long learning for all. Distance learning
is used in all areas of education including Pre-K through
grade 12, higher education, home school education, continuing
education, corporate training, military and government
training, and telemedicine.
Research studies have been quite consistent
in finding that distance learning classrooms report
similar effectiveness results as reported under traditional
instruction methods. In addition, research studies often
point out that student attitudes about distance learning
are generally positive.
Providing courses and electronic field
trips are among the principal applications for distance
learning in Pre-K through grade 12 education. Distance
learning is also used to support rural and inner city
classes with student enrichment, student courses, staff
development and in-service training for teachers and administrators.
In higher education, distance learning
is providing undergraduate and advanced degrees to students
in offices, at community colleges and at various receive
sites. Students for whom convenience may be a crucial
factor in receiving college credit are earning degrees
by satellite, audio, and over the Internet.
Faced with retraining 50 million American
workers, corporate America is using distance learning,
both internally and externally, for all aspects of training.
Many major corporations save millions of dollars each
year using distance learning to train employees more effectively
and more efficiently than with conventional methods.
Programming for distance
learning provides the receiver many options both in technical
configurations and content design. Educational materials
are delivered primarily through live and interactive classes.
The intent of these programs is not necessarily to replicate
face-to-face instruction. Interactivity is accomplished
via telephone (one-way video and two-way audio), two-way
video or graphics interactivity, two-way computer hookups,
or response terminals.
Technology offers many options for delivering
and receiving education over a distance. The ability of
the teacher and students to see each other may not be
a necessary condition for effective distance learning,
but audio can be a critical component for interactivity.
Teaching strategies based on computer applications are
emerging that are also effective.
Research on distance learning
applications for Pre-K through grade 12, as well as in
adult learning and training settings, strongly suggests
that distance education is an effective means for delivering
instruction.
Funding for both satellite and web-based
distance education systems can be accomplished through
various means:
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Issuing bonds to
cover construction costs |
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Legislation to install
satellite dishes and other technology packages at
schools and community buildings |
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State, national and
Federal grant programs |
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Various other options
including taxes and levies Distance learning provides
equity of access to information and opportunities
and can dramatically decrease the costs and inconveniences
associated with maintaining a well-trained work
force. |
Telecommunications systems that serve
education can also benefit the community at large. In rural
areas, especially, telecommunications systems and services
are tied increasingly to economic development and community
survival. New uses for distance learning include the application
of information and educational resources for Pre-K through
grade 12 students, adults, senior citizens, local governments,
organizations and businesses.
| For additional information
and guidance on the topic of distance learning the
following sources may be useful. |
Polycom’s Videoconference Program Database
Polycom’s Video Conference Program Database contains
content from over 1,500 providers such as zoos and museums
offering ISDN or IP based video conferencing. This easily
searchable database was developed by BCISD and brings
Polycom’s education customers value-add programs
for the classroom.
For more information and to access the program database
please visit:
Videoconference Program Database:
http://www.polycom.com/solutions/1,,pw-12492,FF.html
National
Education Technology Plan
Susan D. Patrick
Director Office of Educational Technology
U.S. Department of Education
Download
Presentation [ppt]
For more information, please
visit:
www.ed.gov
www.ed.gov/Technology
www.NationalEdTechPlan.org
www.nclb.gov
EMERGING
TRENDS IN POST SECONDARY EDUCATION - THE VIEW TO 2012
Recently, Dr. John
G. Flores, Executive Director of USDLA, participated
in The Education Industry Finance and Investment Summit
"Driving Post-Secondary Education" conference.
ThinkEquity Partners, Michael T. Moe, CFA and Chief
Executive Officer, presented a broad overview of historical
and emerging trends in the post-secondary education
market. ThinkEquity Partners has granted permission
to USDLA to reprint the presentation.
Click
here to download
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