Distance Education and the next generation

Distance Education has shown a significant increase and will be emphasized with the next generation, according to Simonson (Laureate, 2008).  Distance education has exploded over the past few decades.  This advancement of technology has the ability to learn about different subjects from various locations that would not otherwise be possible until college or by other expensive course options.  Moller, Huett, Foshay and Coleman (2008) authored a series of articles regarding distance education and believed there is usefulness in this advancement of technology but there should also be improvements in instructional design. 

The authors believe there should be a transformation of the teaching methods, economic reforms and the organizational structure.  I agree that these factors can be a obstruction to the continued development of distance education. I also believe that with the continual collaborative efforts of knowledgeable instructors and instructional design professionals’ online education will continue to improve and be a viable alternative to traditional schools for all ages and cultures on a global scale.

Huett, J., Moller, L., Foshay, W. & Coleman, C. (2008, September/October). The evolution of distance education: Implications for instructional design on the potential of the Web (Part 3: K12). TechTrends, 52(5), 63–67.

Simonson, M. (2000). Making decisions: The use of electronic technology in online classes. New Directions for Teaching and Learning, 84, 29–34.

DVD: Laureate Education, Inc. (2008). Principles of Distance Education. Baltimore: Simonson, M.