What is Distance Learning?

Distance learning is the use of technology in instructional theory and application that links instructors and learners together, regardless of time or location of learning. Distance learning models can be used in combination with traditional classroom learning methods or distance learning models can be created to be wholly virtual classrooms. In Distance learning education models, the presentation of content shifts from being instructor-centered to being student-centered, and relies more heavily on visual presentation of content.

The National Center for Education Statistics released results in December 2008 of a study titled, Distance Education at Degree-Granting Postsecondary Institutions: 2006-07. The purpose of the study was to estimate how many learners use distance learning programs and how many degree granting institutions offer distance education programs. According to the study, 66% of degree granting postsecondary institutions offer some form of distance learning program ranging from a hybrid classroom/technology environment to a wholly virtual education environment. It was estimated that 12.2 million learners enrolled in these distance learning programs. Internet-based technologies were cited as the most widely used distance learning technology by 75% of the institutions.

Distance learning technologies and capabilities have enabled instructors to broaden educational theory and application through learning models like synaptic learning theory, adaptive learning systems, M-computing, media-rich game-based learning, virtual reality learning environments in second life, intelligent tutoring environments, Web 2.0 and Web 3.0 technologies. Distance learning education models have been used effectively in the military and government long before it became feasible to use in PreK-12 and higher education. For more information about the latest research in distance learning models, visit the Online Journal of Distance Education Administration.

Now, with 21^st century technology, distance learning models are widely used in Pre-K through Grade 12, higher education, home school, continuing education, corporate training, military and government training, self-help education and telehealth education. Distance learning is not just for formal education degrees or work training any more. Distance learning is for any person or organization like parents, Oprah Winfrey and the U.S. Army that wants to reach and teach a learner.

Oprah Winfrey and Eckhart Tolle Create Distance Learning Program

In March 2008, Oprah and Tolle created and launched a distance learning program using best-selling author Eckhart Tolle's book A New Earth. According to Oprah's Book Club web site, millions of learners from around the world experienced the live A New Earth online classes and it transformed their lives. The A New Earth distance learning students engaged in virtual spiritual teachings about how to quiet the mind, how to check your ego at the door, and how to be fully present in the moment.

The web class co-taught by Oprah and Tolle has ended, but they still offer the 10 chapter-by-chapter classes available for viewing on webcast or download from iTunes, along with a workbook, group networking, an exclusive newsletter, audio meditations, theme songs, and transcripts. A New Earth distance learning students from Iraq, Australia and around the world continue to network with Oprah and Tolle about the self-help topics.

Want to Learn About Soldiering? Try America's Army 3 Online Virtual Learning Game

America's Army game was launched in July of 2002 by the United States Army to educate civilians about the world of soldiering. It is an online virtual distance learning experience that takes the learner through obstacle courses, firing weapons, observing paratrooper instruction, and participating in training exercises with elite combat units. The newest release, America's Army 3 includes the Real Heroes program with stories from heroic soldiers, training modules used in military and government programs, and team-play modules for teaching values like loyalty, respect, and integrity.

America's Army is one of the most popular virtual learning games in the world and is now offered in a cell phone version. The online America's Army 3 includes community forums and game intelligence modules. There are currently over 9 million registered learners on the web site of which over 5 million learners have completed the training. Look for future versions of America's Army available for home game systems like True Soldiers for Xbox 360.

Cutting Edge Distance Learning Models

Cutting-edge distance learning models make use of voice content, video content, image data content, and print content delivered through computer and communication technologies. Distance learning models use satellite, television, cell phones, email, Internet webinars, podcasts, computer videoconferencing, instant messaging services, curriculum on disk, eBooks, and landline telephone to deliver distance education programs that can be accessed in real or delayed time, at any time from any location in the world.

There are challenges, however, when using distance learning models. Learners must be self-reliant and become responsible for their own learning. Instructors must be more readily available for electronic consultation with learners. Developing study group environments often requires different collaborative solutions, sometimes through the work environment or through an online networking environment. Learners enrolled in distance education programs often need additional time for course completion, although distance learning course instructors should clearly state measurable learner outcomes.

United States Distance Learning Association Certifies Distance Learning Programs

The United States Distance Learning Association (USDLA), established in 1987, has been the world's premier distance learning association that averages 2.6 million hits per month on its web site. The USDLA evaluates and assesses the effectiveness of distance learning programs and courses. Universities, Colleges, and Institutes that meet the quality standards and criteria for effective distance learning pedagogy are issued the USDLA Quality Certification that helps the distance learning organizations get accredited for their online degree or certification programs.

In April 2008, the USDLA presented its 2008 International Distance Learning Awards honoring outstanding individuals and organizations for excellence in the field distance learning, education and training. The prestigious International Awards are presented annually to organizations and individuals engaged in the development and delivery of distance learning programs. The awards include: 21st Century Best Practice, Best Practice for Distance Learning Programming, Excellence in Distance Learning Teaching, Outstanding Leadership by an Individual, Hall of Fame and Eagle Awards.

The 2008 21^st Century Awards for Best Practices in Distance Learning

1. Keystone National High School for Online Technology in PreK-12

2. C2 Technologies, Inc., for Blended Learning by a Corporation

3. Western Governors University for Online Technology in Higher Education

4. Virtual High School Global Consortium for Online Technology in PreK-12

5. Webcampus at Stevens Institute of Technology for Online Technology in Higher Education

6. 7city Learning for Online Technology by a Corporation

7. Joint Knowledge Development and Distribution: Capabilities Joint Knowledge Online for Online Technology in Government/Military

8. Army Distributed Learning System for Online Technology in Government/Military

Visit the National Distance Learning Association web site to see all the 2008 Distance Learning award winners.

Sources:

Oprah's Book Club: A New Earth Distance Learning Program

http://www.oprah.com/article/oprahsbookclub/anewearth/pkganewearthwebcast/20080130_obc_webcast_marketing

United States Distance Learning Association (USDLA)

http://www.usdla.org/Glossary_Distance.pdf

The International Center for Distance Learning Research and Praxis (ICDLRP)

http://www.usdla.org/index.php?cid=107

USDLA 2008 International Awards Presented For Excellence in Distance Learning for Individuals, Organizations and Companies Honoring Their Outstanding Achievements

Press Release, April 2008, USDLA

http://www.usdla.org/index.php?cid=118

U.S. Department of Education

http://www.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ovae/pi/AdultEd/tdlearn.html#3

Teaching-Learning Model for Distance Education

http://www.tecweb.org/eddevel/high/teachmodel.html

America's Army 3 Virtual Distance Learning Game

http://www.americasarmy.com/