I have taken online instruction from two universities now. Both have included some attempt to incorporate social interaction into the program. One incorporated a large component of team-based assignments while the other incorporated field experience assignments. Both models have pros and cons. Overall, the most important element lacking in both programs was an understanding of the importance of this element of learning and assistance to the student in facilitating the experience and overcoming the challenges.

Reference

MacKeracher, D. (2004).  Making sense of adult education. (pp. 71-91). University of Toronto Press: Toronto Canada.

Additionally, in an online environment student’s all see each other’s work. While this could be a motivator for some students, I generally see it as a reminder that I work way too hard. I certainly do not want to sound arrogant; however, some of my class mates would not pass my undergraduate classes if they were to submit similar work. I do not know what grades these students get in their doctoral classes, but they continue to submit poor work so I assume they are passing. This leads me to wonder if this degree really means anything?

Online education is convenient. It brings education to those who might not otherwise get an education, but it has some serious weaknesses that need attention.

There must be a solution to this problem. Distance learning is here to stay, but it must provide an equally stimulating educational experience. I feel a dissertation topic lies somewhere amidst this frustration.

“Why am I here?”

“What am I trying to accomplish?”

“Is it going to be worth it?”

I have been asking myself these questions repeatedly. My conclusion: “I don’t know.” For now, it’s off to the land of insane amounts of homework, crazy reading, and more discussions of NCLB.

So many questions to ponder. More insights to these questions after I have spent some time contemplating.

If anyone out there wants to share their personal experiences working in student teams, I would love to hear it.

Much research has been done on the topic of learning styles. Gardner’s theory of multiple intelligences, Kolb’s experiential learning theory are just two of the more commonly applied theories among numerous theories, constructs and variations of theories. Some of these theories use simple, easy to understand language that can be interpreted and applied in a classroom. Other theories use odd terminology to define  constructs that classify learners such as assimilators or divergers. In a college such as the one I teach at, most of the instructors are educated in their specialty. They have advanced degrees in design, art, business, science or whatever. Very few have formal education in the field of education; therefore, the terminology must be commonly understood in order to be meaningful.  Just one more reason this dissertation topic is appropriate.