Week 8 Course Reflection

There is some uncertainty surrounding distance learning but it is going full steam ahead. Distance learning will continue to increase in popularity among organizations, educational institutions, and learners of the future. With increased attention already there are responsibilities being identified that aid in sustaining distance education systems and methods being utilized to measure its effectiveness. An increased number of individuals are communicating online which only increases exposure to distance communication, which is the basis for online learning. As individuals become increasingly accustomed to technology tools it will make more sense to utilize distance education in organizations and institutions.

The benefits of distance education cannot be ignored. Distance education is so flexible because of its transportability. The consistent utilization of online delivery formats can prove to be very economical. The important factor is to ensure that comprehensive planning is done to avoid investment in a non-effective instructional module. The flexibility associated with distance learning allows us to customize schedules to fit more pressing needs such as family and work deadlines.

As an instructional designer, there is a responsibility to maintain the quality of distance education. By consistently developing modules targeted toward engaging learners while delivering pertinent content the vision of distance learning can be transformed into one of respect instead of uncertainty. Understanding the needs of learners and designing instruction to accommodate diverse learners by providing various delivery formats should be a focus. Current technology can bring learners together that have a significant geographical distance between them. Exposing ourselves to viewpoints, opinions, and solutions that we would have otherwise never seen or heard enhances the active learning experience.

Keeping ourselves aware of the dynamics involved in online education such as credibility, quality, and learner diversity continuous improvement will be much easier. Implementing the right systematic approach such as ADDIE and Human Performance Technology (HPT) the goals of an instructional module can be developed for varying contexts. Organizations and institutions seek distance education for different reasons. It may be to improve work performance of employees or to increase enrollment. Understanding the reason for the need of the instruction, the context that it will be delivered in, and the desired results puts designers in the best position for success.