Comments on: What is Online Learning?

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Sun, 08 Mar 2009 20:52:49 +0000

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Tue, 06 Jan 2009 06:49:24 +0000

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By: SHUBHRANSHU AGARWAL

SHUBHRANSHU AGARWAL — Fri, 21 Nov 2008 05:28:21 +0000

Thanks for sharing valuable information. I think that the result of any online tutoring and thus the satisfaction of students largely depend upon the applied teaching strategy and student’s own initiatives. Initial hurdles can be handled easily by using latest teaching software and technology. Recently, I have been at http://tutorskingdom.com/ , where I realized the ‘real’ difference between regular classes and online learning.

By: Cellular-Technology » What is Online Learning?

Cellular-Technology » What is Online Learning? — Tue, 11 Nov 2008 07:18:36 +0000

[...] What is Online Learning?They are buying mobile cellular technology that increasingly provides capabilities and capacity to integrate the web into their daily lives…and into their learning if we also adopt these processes. It is time for our classes to reflect … [...]

By: Britt

Britt — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 19:17:49 +0000

Thanks for the conversation from all. Lots of food for thought. A theme that I am seeing is the focus on learning first, with which I totally agree. Jeff’s comments really get at the whole notion of backwards translation by those of us teaching with the internet to those considering it. I would be the first to say that “online courses” are not for everyone, but that online learning is. Even in very hands-on classes, there are aspects that can be enhanced and better illustrated through targeted use of online learning.

By: Jeff Nugent

Jeff Nugent — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 16:35:25 +0000

@ Frank Gulla I find it interesting that is your take on the FLC Frank…that we are focusing on the technology. I don’t see it that way at all. My view is that we have been discussing the conceptual drivers and key questions to explore (concept of engagement and examining the recent ECAR study). We have not focused on any technology tools at all…importantly we have positioned the conversation to help us explore how technology can be pressed into the service to enhance learning. At some point it does come down to how we use the technology in teaching / learning…and that involves the development of both technical and pedagogical expertise.

By: Frank Gulla

Frank Gulla — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 15:47:11 +0000

Once again you have hit the nail on the head, pointing out that we should not be focused on the technology but on its use and results. How ironic that I am in an FLC about technology, teaching and learning. We have been focused on technology’s use, but I think I will re-examine my in light of your blog and relate them to the FLC’s efforts.

By: Jeff

Jeff — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 14:07:34 +0000

Thanks for the post and the opportunity to comment.

I found the “I believe..” bullet points to be of interest in understanding what you are trying to sort out here.

To me it seems that one thing you are attempting to come to terms with about “online learning” perhaps rests with the distinction between formal and informal learning environments. Most of the bullets seem to fit into both categories..with a few exceptions. They are helpful as guideposts for you.

While I’ll acknowledge that important role of more informal learning through PLE/N stuff you mention, the “small pieces loosely joined” thing…I think the real challenge is with the formal educational setting.

I would be interested in how we move beyond what we believe about “online learning” to what we know from research about what teaching practices best support learning in web-based courses. I have lots of questions..here are a few:

1) It may be AFO, but is formal on-line learning for everyone? Why / why not?

2) What course design features are crucial in supporting successful online learning? Is this discipline specific?

3) Does online teaching imply the need for the development of new teaching practices? If so, what do they look like? If not, why?

4) If the informal (PLE/N) is shaping the notion of formal online learning…why do we need to even call it “online learning” anymore? Its just “L”earning.