Online and Distance Learning Ann Erickson EDT – 616 Seminar in Educational Media March 20, 2006

ATM, ITV, online, or other distance education courses Which medium is best for you? ATM--stands for Asynchronous Transfer Mode, the method by which data is transmitted on the Maine School and Library Network, a broadband fiber-optic communications system that connects public schools, and public libraries across the state. 1 ITV--Interactive TeleVision courses use video technology to connect classrooms. Instructors and students are connected in a live video and audio conference at scheduled times and locations. 2 It use to be the only way to speak with the professor or classmates was to use the telephone and call in to the sending site. Now, students can use easily activated microphones to communicate. 2 Online--Computer based instruction in which courses use the world wide web as the primary delivery method of information. A text book may or may not be required and all other materials, as well as communication with the instructor, are provided through the course web-site. Web-based instruction is often used interchangeably with online courses. 3 (Similar to us using Blackboard)

1. Have you ever taken an ITV, online, ATM or other distance education course prior to Seminar in Educational Media? If yes, when did you take the course? If yes, which method was used? If no, please move on to the next question… ITV- 6 classes Online-12 classes ATM-6 classes Web based-several Online-several (some participation and others previously taught).

2. Do you think that ITV, online, or ATM courses have a positive effect on education? Please give support for your answer. Why or Why not? Positive effects: Motivation Disciplined Lifelong learners Distance-rural areas Participation Save $ and time

3. Do you think that ITV, online, or ATM courses have a negative effect on education? Please give support for your answer. Why or Why not? Negative effects: Frustration Limited in delivery Impersonal Communication Comparison Dependent upon the type of the class being conducted. Network problems

4. Do you think that the students can effectively interact and learn from their classmates using the methods listed above? Why or Why not? Self confidence Quiet Rude Disconnected Online-most effective Online-least effective ATM-two-way interaction ITV--telephone is a nuisance, and very rude.

5. Do you think that the students can effectively interact with their professors using the methods listed above? Why or Why not? Yes Highly motivated Professors ability Discussion Boards No Demanding Dynamics Technology Number of students

6. What expectation do students have concerning verbal and nonverbal behavior than in the traditional classroom? Eye contact Conversation flow Respect Distractions

7. Sometimes similes and metaphors can bring insight into complex issues. ("The world is like a stage.”) What simile or metaphor would you use for distance education. Going on line is like fishing with lures. You can catch some of the fish some of the time, but not as well as with live bait. Seek and ye shall find. Distance education is a classroom without walls. Distance education is like a bicycle; the more you use it, the better you are at it! Distance education is like a spider web. The web is supported by many anchors around its perimeter, the anchors being each student. The web itself encompasses all that students contribute to the learning environment. Distance education involves going from point a to point b in a new way that is exciting but challenging. A certain comfort level with learning is essential first. Distance learning is like a radio station, it is always there whenever you want to listen to it. It’s a small world.

8. Would you recommend an ITV, online or ATM course to a classmate or colleague? Why or why not? 1---No 6---Yes 3-Cautiously

9. What would you consider the biggest challenge in taking an ITV, online, or ATM course? Glitches with technology Meeting deadlines Professors involvement Time management Loss of connectedness Communication Distractions

10. Do you think that ITV, online or ATM courses will ever replace the traditional classroom? Why or why not? 8--No, not totally 2--Maybe, just not 100%

References Thanks to all of my classmates in EDT 616 course for their input in regards to the survey questions. All of the answers that I received were similar to research that I have found regarding the pros and cons of forms of distance learning. We sure have came a long way with technology and education!! 1. /pages/project_overview.html /pages/project_overview.html 2. cfm cfm