Where is Distance Learning Headed?

What do you think the perceptions of distance learning will be in the future (in 5–10 years; 10–20 years)?

In five to ten years the perception of D.L. will continue to rise. People will still choose the traditional route, but I believe older students will choose online learning to meet their lifestyles. We must look at where technology will be in the near future and then we can see where education is heading. According to Dr. Siemens, distance education will be impacted by new communication technologies, contribution by experts around the world, and increased use of multimedia, games, and simulations.

In ten to twenty years, distance learning will be succeeding. Distance learning will impact universities, but also the K-12 settings. Many corporate companies provide employees with the opportunity to go back to school with little to no tuition. In the future, companies will be looking for employees that have postsecondary education. Imagine companies providing their employees an hour a day to take an online course. Employees will be knowledgeable and equipped with the necessary skills to get the job done. In the K-12 setting, more online home schooling will be available across the country. Students in 9th -12th will be provided with more online courses to take outside of the traditional classes.

How can you as an instructional designer be a proponent for improving societal perceptions of distance learning?

As an instructional designer I can be a proponent for improving societal perceptions of distance learning by providing learners with the opportunity to the currency of instructional content and effective delivery of material. As an I.D., I will have the knowledge and skills of a broad variety of technologies. I will provide learners with the opportunity to take charge of their learning with my assistance and guidance. I will continue to research the value of education, new technologies, and instructional opportunities that will allow me to improve developmental skills for an online environment.

How will you be a positive force for continuous improvement in the field of distance education?

I will be a positive force for continuous improvement in the field of distance education because I will utilize the skills and knowledge I have acquired at Walden. I will be an advocate for online instructors in the field of distance education. I will seek guidance from professionals that provide quality-learning experiences and continuously improve my skills.

Reference: Laureate Education Inc. (2009). The Future of Distance Education [video]. George Siemens.