Online Learning: Is it for you?
You’re familiar with the term “online” and you know a whole lot
about “learning.” But the concept of online learning baffles you. Do
people just take tests using the World Wide Web? Do virtual teachers
hold classes somewhere in cyberspace?
If these questions sound just a wee bit familiar, here is a short introduction to the world of online learning.
Online learning is an extremely accessible and flexible resource
that can help you gain new teaching skills, get licenses by meeting
professional development requirements, or even get program credits or
certificates to advance your teaching career.
How? Well, basically, there are no “live” classes. You choose your
class times when it’s most convenient for you. Lectures, coursework and
discussions are done either at home or in school as long as you have
Internet access. It’s still high-quality instruction and it’s
legitimate, only this time you don’t face the obstacles that usually
hinder those who want to pursue these kinds of goals.
Snapshots of an online classroom
There are two basic types of online learning. One is led by an
instructor (who gives the grades, lessons and assignments), and the
other is led by you (otherwise known as a self-paced course).
To get an image of online learning, think of an empty classroom with
a large corkboard in place of a blackboard, and around 20 lockers, each
bearing the name of a person. On the corkboard, the instructor left a
note and a copy of his or her lecture. In the note, he or she says to
come back in the next few days to post your questions and comments to
the lecture or anything class-related.
When you check the locker with your name on it, there is also a note
with what textbooks you’ll need, and information about the other
students and the instructor. You also learn that the locker is your
personal cubbyhole, and its contents can only be seen by you. However,
anything you post on the board can be seen by everyone else.
Throughout the coursework, more and more notes will be left on the
corkboard, with replies to lectures and replies to those replies. These
virtual conversations often become long, lively chains of notes, much
like a spirited discussion. And in your locker, you can get notes as
well from the instructor about assignments, or notes from other
students about lecture materials.
When you and the other students access the room at the same time,
you can also chat with them live. You can even arrange these discussion
times in advance. As you get to know your classmates more, you realize
they come from so far away. But the class has become engaging and
interesting, and you get to speak your mind.
If you want to check out a sample online development site, try PBS Teacher Line
which has already been recognized by the US Distance Learning
Association and National Education Association for excellence. It has
more than 130 graduate-level courses that are supportive of beginners, beneficial for schools and districts and experienced facilitators.
How do you know you’re ready for it?
To make sure you’re ready for online learning, just determine whether the following statements are true or false:
- I have easy access to a computer and the Internet.
- I am computer-literate.
- I can type easily.
- I don’t find it hard to read materials online.
- I know how to download and set up software.
- I like exploring new things.
- I am not afraid to ask questions.
- I have no problem with one-on-one conversations.
- I can work independently.
- I have 10-15 hours available that could be used for studying every week.
- I can learn how to do something by reading instructions.
- I don’t think online courses are easier than a “real” class.
- The thought of choosing when I want to work, attend class and study, as well as going to class in pajamas, appeal to me.
- I don’t like commuting.
- I used to have classes I wanted to take but couldn’t because of my schedule.
- I like exchanging ideas and discussions with other people.
- I can organize my thoughts better when I write.
- I want to experience having classmates from all over the country and the world.
If you answered true to most of these statements, then an online learning environment may be perfect for you!
Sources:
“How Online Learning Works.” Retrieved May 12, 2009 from
http://www.onlinelearning.net/ole/Index.html?s=127.v060v290a.085f316g30
“The OnlineLearning.net Self-Assessment QuizTM. “Retrieved May 12, 2009 from
http://www.onlinelearning.net/OLE/holwselfassess.html?s=127.v060v290a.085f316g30
“Why TeacherLine?” Retrieved May 12, 2009 from http://www.pbs.org/teacherline/why/
(Published 25 May 2009, Smart Communications Inc.)
