Reflection

In 5-10 years distance learning will continue to emerge internationally with more web 2.0 tools integration. Distance learning in the higher education will offer more degree programs online for the traditional and non-traditional student even while students are living on campus. The cost of education is rising which will increase the need for employment for traditional students while obtaining their education. Distance learning will continue to benefit corporations by allowing them to interact with different offices around the world (Laureate Education, 2010).

In 10-20 years based on the economy and the era of “consolidation” distance learning will be the only option. The brick and mortar institutions that can, will close physically however “go live” online to cut costs, be more competitive and survive. Corporations will continue to rely on digital media to train and maintain nationally and internationally while incorporating new communication technologies. Instructional designers are going to bridge the gap between the subject matter experts and the organizations. 

Instructional designers will be the human performance technology specialists that will look for the problem and use technology to fix the problem. Instructional designers need to continue to show the benefits of distance learning in comparison to face to face classrooms.  Flexibility, convenience/lifestyle, quality and operational is all characteristics that instructional designers are responsible for when implementing an online course.

In order to be a positive force for continuous improvement in the field of distance education; I will use the AEIOU approach. It uses quantitative and qualitative methodologies, which has two primary purposes as an evaluation strategy (Simonson, Smaldino, Albright & Zvacek, 2012). I like the formative information that the model will produce for the staff and the summative information about the value of the project and its activities (Simonson, Smaldino, Albright & Zvacek, 2012). The AEIOU model will provide questions necessary for effective evaluation within each component.  As an effective instructional designer, I must identify what organizational contexts support effective distance education systems (Simonson, Smaldino, Albright & Zvacek, 2012). Using quantitative and qualitative procedures to determine will ensure a positive impact. 

References

Laureate Education, Inc. (Producer). (2010). Teaching and learning at a distance. [DVD]. “ The Future of Distance Education”. Boston, MA: Dr. George Siemens.

Simonson, M., Smaldino, S., Albright, M., & Zvacek, S. (2012). Teaching and learning at a distance: Foundations of distance education (5th ed.). Boston, MA: Pearson.