My first experience with distance education consisted of
taking online classes through a university because I needed educational credit.
I enjoyed this introduction experience because it provided me the opportunity
to have a flexible schedule and not be tied down to a “must attend weekday”
schedule. Although the course work was accelerated,
I found the course materials and assignments challenging. The university offered
a wide variety of short interval courses that students could take were
scheduled weekly, bi-weekly, and monthly. With the course offerings being more
accessible, students could schedule their classes to complete educational
requirements at a faster rate than having to wait 15 weeks or a semester to
complete a required class. In spite of the fact that many people are
discouraged to use distance education because they feel a need for face-to-face
interaction, I found that through web cam and using other visual aids on the
internet provided the social connection all students need with their classmates
and instructor.
Although I have technology experience, it is amazing how it
used at various levels of our educational system, infrastructures, and
management systems. I thought I was
keeping up with resources and instructional practices, but after taking online
classes I realize how technology and distance education is strongly influencing
learning. Even though I have completed many hybrid and blended courses, the
technology integration was the important element that kept drew my attention. An important feature that contributed to my
favorable attitude towards distance education is the cost for text books and
supplies. The distance education courses I completed allowed me to use various
web tools, programs, download reading and supplemental materials at affordable
costs and I did not have worry about selling books, etc.
My experience with distance education have been truly
positive and rewarding. Although, it was not encouraged or used through my
early educational years, I often find myself encouraging others to experience
distance education as an alternative to meet that individual’s need.
