Blog Discussion 2
Communication in Distance Learning
The reliance on innovative communication tools for interaction provides an effective online learning environment. Early distance education courses primarily focused on asynchronous learning techniques such as threaded messages, email, wikis, blogs, and discussion boards. However, due to increased access and advancement of communication technologies asynchronous methods are gradually contributing more to the evolution of distance education. Videoconferencing, live chats, and phone interactions provide superior methods of communication to guide instruction and build a community of online learners (Corbeil, 2006). Although many educators argue that combining both asynchronous and synchronous technologies provides best practices in communication and personal empowerment (Saba, 2006).
Siemens (2008) agrees that advancement in communication increases acceptance and quality of online education. A variety of communication tools facilitate collaborate interactions. Hensley (2009, June 23) describes a wealth of online communication tools to enhance the classroom including Twitter, Eduslide, Google Apps, and Mikogo. (See the complete list on her blog).
Finally, wide acceptance and diffusion of communication technologies in society generates familiarity with tools used in the online environment. Learners possessing awareness of these tools immediately feel comfortable in the online environment increasing the probability of a positive learning experience (Siemens, 2008).
References
Carbeil, J.R. (2006). Desktop videoconferencing in distance education: From revolution to evolution. Retrieved June 23, 2009, from http://net.educause.edu/ir/library/powerpoint/SWR0670.pps
Hensley, P. (2009, June 23). 20 communication and networking tools for teachers. Message posted to http://successfulteaching.blogspot.com/2009/06/20-communication-and-networking-tools.html
Saba, F. (2006, December 19). On asynchronous learning. Message posted to http://www.distance-educator.com/blog/saba/
Siemens, G. (2008). The future of distance education [DVD]. Laureate Education, Inc.
Communication is the key to why all of these new technologies are diffusing so rapidly. It does not matter who you are, communication is a part of life. All of the new technology available today, is just helping to make communication more easily accomplished by grandmothers all the way down to young children. This was pointed out in our resources as a reason why distance education is becoming more accepted in society (Siemens, 2008). It is becoming more of a way of life.
ReplyDeleteSiemens, G. (2008). The future of distance education [DVD]. Laureate Education, Inc.
Communication is an essential component of any online course. I think that we have to always take a "show & tell" approach with technology to help people feel confortable. Showing students and/or staff how easy online communication is will go along way in a successful online experience.
ReplyDeleteI also agree with Saba that, "combining both asynchronous and synchronous technologies provides best practices in communication and personal empowerment". In the traditional classroom, teachers strive to provide a well-rounded education for their students. With online learning, asynchronous and synchronous technologies are tools for providing that well-rounded education that students are looking for in distance education.
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