Week 9: Reading 1

Before the widespread use of the internet, distance learning consisted of correspondence courses by mail or media like audio, video, radio, or TV. As distance learning moves to a new stage, benefits of the previous media options combined with advantages of the internet can produce a more meaningful learning experience. A sense of community can be added to the distance learning environment as students and teachers can interact more fully in synchronous and asynchronous environments.

Drawbacks to online learning are availability of technological resources (i.e. computer, modems, software, etc.) and impact on preconceived ideas of classroom learning.