David,
It is my sincere hope that online learning would not replace the traditional classroom. However I know that I would have not obtained my masters degree without online learning.
I am an advocate of using online learning in a hybrid-type environment. Face-to-face interaction is vital especially with group projects. Whenever possible, students living in the same geographical region should be encouraged to network with each other
Deborah Balentine
Kimberly,
The only obstacle I see is the prioritization of funding. But I agree with you wholeheartedly.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
I hope so :) I think that eventually all schools will have this option. I also project that more and more students in traditional high schools will be able to opt out and take online classes.
I think that a smart school district would implement an online learning component NOW to be a cutting edge school.
I think that the benefits of online learning are so significant that most students would prefer to take advantage of this than driving to a face-to-face college. Our world is high-tech now- everyone wants information fast, and people process informtion fster than ever before... why not?
Alicia,
I believe this is a likely possibility. However, it is probably many years away until technology can provide appropriate learning activities to rival the hands-on, in-class instructional setting of the traditional classroom. Nevertheless, your prediction is well on its way for many lecture/theory classes.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
I believe that the online learning has somewhat already changed the traditional classroom settings. With the invention of ebooks, I think all traditional classroom settings will change to online to avoid having to attend an on campus course/class.
Laura,
Your reasons are very valid. Do you think development of future technologies may help overcome some of these limitations?
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
I dont think that online will replace traditional classroom. There are a lot of students who are visual learners they need to be shown and hear your voice and some that just need to read and they comprehend. There are also learning disabilities that could be fustrated with online aswell.
Linda,
I believe you are absolutely correct. It is very adequate for many current instructional goals and is becoming appropriate for additional instructional objectives as technologies continue to improve. "Where it will stop, nobody knows." - As the old saying goes. Excellent, concise post.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
Right now, there is a need for both. Depending on the course material, some instruction should be done face to face. However, with the new technology that is evolving, on-line training may be the way of the future.
Douglas,
I think we have an exciting time ahead!
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
David,
It seems that way for sure, and it will be increasing along with the pace and challenges as we face global competition. I look forward to being part of the solutions. Thanks for your supporting comments.
Doug
Douglas,
In many cases it has. The refinement process is mightily underway as technologies are improved specifically for this purpose.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
I believe that it already has. The traditional classroom invokes many of the principles of online learning, particularly with regard to leveraging of technologies.
Susan,
Yes, there are trade-offs and the "lightbulb" moments are less apparent in the asynchronous, text environment. The audiovisual interactive communication that allows the teacher and student to see and hear each other is becoming more prevalent in some of the newer LMS implementations. I'm sure you're right that many of the "hands-on" career tracks will continue to require the traditional classroom/lab for at least several more years.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
Dr. Vaillancourt,
I think this is a very interesting question. The answer is hard to predict. More and more schools are offering online or blended learning environments. New online schools are popping up all the time, so it seems.
I teach at an adult technical school. One of the things we pride ourselves on is our "hands on" method of teaching. The type of student that is atracted to this type of school may not be the same that is attracted to the online environment. When we went to the blended learning format in one of our classes it was very difficult for some of our student to adjust.
One of the things I love about teaching are the "light bulb" moments the students have right before your very eyes. If all classes were online, I would really miss that.
So to answer your question, it is my hope that some schools continue to offer the "hands on" environment that I have come to love.
Crystal,
Very good points, on all counts. In fact, I believe your statements reflect the current status of the industry. Thank you for your contribution.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
For some programs, it will. There are programs where online instruction is just not the best option. I think for some education areas, such as accounting, business, computer software, marketing, all online classes would work well. However, there are some programs of study a traditional classroom is still needed. Programs such as electrical training, medical assistance, nursing, cosmetology and computer repair you need to be in a class room to learn (personally, I do not want anyone giving me some type of medical procedure who has only read about it and not had hands on learning).
Joel,
I believe you are right that traditional classes will be around for a good while longer - but the distant future is a bit less certain for traditional, per many educators. Good point. Thanks for your input.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
Online learning environments do not suit or work for everyone. Just as there are multiple learning styles, there are modes of learning (FTF, Online, Hybrid) that suit different learners. Online will continue to grow and remain a viable option but face to face will not be replaced by online exclusively any time soon.
Sandi,
It is a very controversial question. For many, it seems like it is just a matter of time (five years?, 10 years?, 25 years?, 50 years?). Nevertheless, it should be interesting to see the evolution as it occurs.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
