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Context is always so important - when introducing a new subject, incorporating a new technology, or speaking of current events. It is no different when Distance Learning is discussed. Historically, distance learning began in the United States as vocational, farming, and/or apprenticeship learning. Teaching skill sets to those not exposed to the particular skills on a regular basis was - and continues to be - democratizing. We see this with the advent of PBS, CPB and Sesame Street, and later with corporate training, online university courses and homeschooling. Unfortunately, the 'elitist attitude' which stems from Distance Learning's early beginnings and mindsets associated with vocational work continues. There is definitely a 'mindset' among many that Distance Learning isn't 'real' or as effective as classroom, 'institutional' or 'one-size-fits-all learning that we have grown accustomed to throughout history. Is a Distance Learning college degree worth the same as that from a private liberal arts American college?
Distance Learning allows not only for flexibility in time and space, but in ways that impact the learning style of the individual. As Distance Learning evolves, it is taking a more dynamic approach to address the styles and needs of individual learners. It can be more adaptive and allow for creativity and choice that our traditional classrooms and institutions do not yet embrace.
Saba points out that confusion during a period of rapid growth is normal; technology and the options it affords have dramatically affected the way in which Distance Learning is implemented. One would think that because corporate organizations have been able to control rising costs with Distance Learning, that public education institutions would do the same. The inverse has been the case; as public education has embraced more technology and invested large amounts of money into its implementation, costs are still rising.
I agree with Saba that our approach to Distance Learning is still very much one-size-fits-all. I've written before about by background in Child Development, and my philosophy of education highlights the learner as individual. When public education begins to respond to the social environment of the child, of children, and of the municipality & state issues that impact learning, Distance Learning can then be successfully embraced and implemented.