Who should consider taking online learning classes?

The first step in deciding to enroll in any educational experience is to outline why this is desirable.

The second step, assuming there is a real need and desire to acquire new knowledge and/or skills, is to analyze the options, benefits, and disadvantages of different modalities of learning.

If the learner concludes that either online learning has an unparalleled advantage over other modalities OR, if constraints are such that no other modality is available or deemed as efficient and effective, then the learner should make user of distance learning.

What are the advantages of asynchronous learning?

Asynchronous learning has the advantage of providing the learner and instructor with a choice of location and time. While it is this flexibility which is often the focus of interest, there are a number of hidden advantages to asynchronous learning. The physical distance that is often seen by many as a disadvantage can have positive effects by making learners and instructors more objective, less fearful of comment or criticism, less prone to cultural barriers (especially as a world wide online culture develops), and more inclined to think through problems before responding. These issues will be addressed in more detail in subsequent pages of this site.

What learning style is online learning suited for?

As in any teaching, on the web instructors must strive to provide a variety of resources catering to the different learning styles. Online learning is uniquely able to fulfill this goal as the instructor can incorporate a myriad of approaches.

For example, the instructor can provide screen text and graphics for visual learners but can also provide streaming presentations with audio for auditory learners. To reach and motivate experiential learners the instructor and use simulations or cases as part of the class. The instructor can also add research and exploration opportunities to further challenge the students and allow them to use their senses. In addition, because web-based courses are not limited to rigid class periods, learners can put time as needed.

In short, with all its tools and ease of communication, what online learning allows is the building of student-centered teaching.

How is class communication affected by online learning?

While not originally expected, student-to-student and faculty-to-student communication is enhanced when this medium is used correctly. According to Kubala, online students are " more willing to participate [due to] a measure of anonymity, which serves as a motivator." "People feel more empowered. They are daring and confrontational regarding the expression of idea." (Kubala, 1998) The reason for this behavior seems to be that the tools of the web, including forums, chats, and e-mail, increase student motivation and involvement in class activities. If dealing with younger learners or avid Internet users, they interact freely as they are very comfortable with the medium.

There are several reasons for the increase in student involvement in online classes as seen below. I suspect some of these factors are also an incentive to interact freely.

1. Students view each others answers and learn through exposure to differing opinions. This helps them develop critical thinking and their own opinions.
2. In this medium all students are equal and have the same opportunity to speak. No gender bias or other such issues exist and there is no issue of embarrassment of public speaking. In fact even shy students excel and interact aggressively in when in forums, chat, or via postings.
3. Students have time to read, think and then express their ideas backing them with facts and searched information. This makes them feel more comfortable than speaking up in a traditional class without researching and backing their argument.
4. Instructors are more accessible via chat, asynchronous posting, or e-mail. In this medium the instructors is more of an "equal", a peer with whom one interacts in the search of answers, rather than a class manager.

Is online learning effective?

Online learning is as effective, and sometimes more effective, than traditional classroom learning. This is in line with Tom Russell's conclusion in his 1999 meta-analysis "The No-Significant-Difference Phenomenon". This conclusion was not surprising to me as I was involved in the development of the first online program approved by the Middle States Association. As part of the approval process we had to show that students put as much time, performed as much work, and realized the same outcomes as those in the traditional classroom. In fact all of those things proved true in spite of the difference in the medium used for the instruction.

One reason why online learning is effective is its ability to offer just-in-time student assessment and evaluation. This capability has two effects. First, it provides instructors with data regarding the progress of the class and whether the objectives are being met. Second, it provides reinforcement of the concepts taught and provides opportunity for remediation.

Another reason why this kind of learning is effective is that it can offer 24/7 access. In this way students can not only study when they are available without interfering with their job or other responsibilities, but they can also study when they are most productive. Some people are more productive in the morning while others are in the evening. Learners appreciate the flexibility which not only open opportunity and reduces the stress of getting to class or to resources on time, but it also can result in extra alertness and the related accomplishments.

What are the benefits of online learning?

Benefits may vary depending on the teaching approach. The perception of whether something is a benefit or a challenge is based on learning style and learner needs. However, below is a list of the most common things learners have listed as benefits of online learning:

1. Allows the learner to study when and where they are most productive.
2. Allows the learner to update his/her skills without interruption of career or personal commitments.
3. In many instances allows for the tailoring to individual needs or schedules.
4. Allows employed learners to put new knowledge to work for their company even while they learn.
5. Opens the door of opportunity to those that could not attend a traditional campus.
6. Allows learners to become part of a community, class, or cohort of learners with similar needs. Those communities may continue to exist in forums after completion of the course.
7. Allows for real time exchanges as well as asynchronous exchanges eliminating time and distance barriers to communication
8. Allows the integration of Internet resources.

What is Online Learning?

Online learning, also referred to as Web-based learning, is learning that takes place via a computer connected to the Internet. Typically the learner logs into a system and accesses information from an instructor or tutorial. The learner then follows an established sequence. At each step the learner interacts with the computer to access more information or supporting resources from the Internet.

In the web environment lessons can require readings (posted on web pages, downloadable files) or interacting with web-based software applications that may allow viewing of demonstrations, assessments, and simulated cases. Asynchronous or live chat can also be incorporated providing interaction with the instructor or other learners. These interactions giving the learner the feeling of belonging to a class or cohort.

Audio, video (compressed), text, and graphics can all be used to display the information, training, or lessons. Since web-based learning can incorporate the vast resources of the Internet, there is almost limitless potential for enhancement. Some of the resources that can be incorporated are access to journals or their abstracts, links to related web sites or blogs, downloading of files and information, and participating or observing listsev discussions or forums.

Depending on the resources available, the initial design and objectives, and how the instruction is structured, web-based learning may be highly interactive. In fact, from my personal experience, interaction improves the course as learners are social being and need an affective dimension to their learning experience. The cohesion and the kinds of relationships that form in this kind of enviroment are remarkable and worth of more study.