Section 7

Distributed Learning

California State University's Center for Distributed Learning offers distributed learning via virtual institutions.

Hybrid courses combine face-to-face instruction with online learning. The University of Wisconsin's Learning Technology Center offers hybrid courses.

A virtual class is offered via the Internet, usually live and interactive, offering the advantages of a real-life course from the comfort of your own home! The Orange County Library System offers a virtual computer course for its patrons.

An example of skills-based training is located at Goodwill Community Foundation, which features computer skills lessons.

Academic Earth provides knowledge-based learning through their Introduction to Psychology video courses.

Rich Media

The following videos use rich media to show you what rich media is and how it can affect instruction & learning!

What is Rich Media:

The Sensory Effect of Media:

Rich Media in Practice:

Putting It All Together:

Reusability

I've taken many professional development courses throughout my teaching career. Some have been more useful than others. Thinking back, I distinctly remember a professional development session called "Let's Get Organized." This course stands out to me because I was able to use and apply the information afterward. Almost 5 years after the fact, I continue to use the ideas and suggestions of the teacher because they were practical and useful. Unfortunately, they don't all stand out in such a positive light. I think I've tried to block out some of the other ones--or perhaps I've forgotten them altogether because my brain has since filled those spots with more useful information! In general, I think the key to reusability is delivering information that lives up to its name--it's reusable! Instead of offering vague concepts or ideas, offer applications of how it can be used. In my case, how it can be used in the classroom. The "why" behind it might be important, but I more need the "how." For example, rather than telling me why poetry is important for students, give me practical applications of how I can incorporate it in my classroom in a meaningful and engaging way. That's something I can take with me and reuse!

Nanotechnology

The edition of the textbook I have does not address nanotechnology, so I did some research on my own and found out that some possible, potential uses for nanotechnology include inventions such as less-visible sunscreen and stain-resistant clothing. I would definitely support the creation of these items given that I am a very fair-skinned clumsy person!

Two Roads

I tend to lean more toward the broad and inclusive road when it comes to instructional design and technology. As it says in the textbook, "In such a design space, where a single, general process model...cannot provide the direction required to transform from goal state to end state, scholars across many disciplines are establishing new value for broad design knowledge."

Similar to the rich media concept, I think instructional design & technology will benefit from implementing ideas, concepts, and innovations across a broad spectrum.