• What do you think about distance education and training at this point starting out the semester?

Distance learning is learning at a distance. Moore et al. (2011) describe it as providing access to learning for those geographically located at a distance. The understandings and opinions are caused in part by the geographic distance that needs to be overcome by learners, teachers, and institutions to have effective, planned learning occur. At the same time, the delivery of instructional materials uses both electronic media and print. Distance learners have a high degree of flexibility and control over time, place, and pace of learning. As the distance learning style of the approach to education is more flexible, distance learning is student-centered than teacher-centered. It enables the student to learn in their own space, in a convenient location, and at convenient times.

Distance education is carried out through audio conferencing, video conferencing, and web-based communication. Also, the delivery of the instruction will be synchronously where students and teachers communicate in real-time. There could be asynchronous delivery where students work on their own time through online chats, face-to-face meetings, or phone conversations. The structure of a distance learning education program may be designed to be self-spaced that fit the traditional academic calendar. When training in distance education, the training activities must be designed for desired behaviors to change attitudes or enhance motivation.

• Do you have a positive or negative view? What has been your experience with distance education as an instructor or student?

My positive view about distance learning as a student is that I do not have to go to classes; traveling to Denton from Fort Worth will be a waste of two hours or more of the drive to school and back. It could be a selection of another school or program then. Which then restricts the learner selection of good universities. Having followed my bachelor’s, master’s, and now on my Ph.D., my experience I have always enjoyed the distance learning programs from UNT that are well structured and arranged at a proper pace that is not a hazel for the learner. Another positive view is that because the program is already developed and available to the student; the learner can continue the assignments at their own pace. With some spare time outside the home, the reading and assignments can be completed anywhere and anytime. The essential time management skill to complete tasks before the deadline, maintain the work-life balance, and be self-motivated is an excellent opportunity for the future. The negative could be the long hours we need to sit in front of the screens, sometimes nearly 13 -14 hours in total with the work hours added to the classes. However, the time factor would not be an issue due to my motivation and determination to succeed. Overall, there could also be issues with internet connectivity that need to be stable for the continuation of work.

Reference

Moore, J. L., Dickson-Deane, C., & Galyen, K. (2011). e-Learning, online learning, and distance learning environments: Are they the same?. The Internet and higher education, 14(2), 129-135.