Application: Converting to a Distance Learning Format

Application: Converting to a Distance Learning Format

Consider the following scenario: A training manager has been frustrated with the quality of communication among trainees in his face-to-face training sessions and wants to try something new. With his supervisor’s permission, the trainer plans to convert all current training modules to a blended learning format, which would provide trainees and trainers the opportunity to interact with each other and learn the material in both a face-to-face and online environment. In addition, he is considering putting all of his training materials on a server so that the trainees have access to resources and assignments at all times.

What are some of the pre-planning strategies the trainer needs to consider before converting his program?

            One can conclude, after examining the various tools and approaches for distance learning, that there is one primary purpose: to provide a valuable learning experience for students who might not otherwise have access to learning (Simonson, Smaldino, Alright, & Zvacek, 2009). Before anything else starts, the trainer/instructor needs to identify the needs of the learning. Again, we covered this in our earlier Introduction to ID course where we should consult SME, and persons who hold a stake in the process. Use the ADDIE model to help implement your design phase, and evaluate ad reevaluate what's working, and what's not working.

What aspects of his original training program could be enhanced in the distance learning format?

            The face to face approach is not working very well, so the trainer needs to take some time to think plan, and story board how to put the learning plan into action. There's different ways which he could design and approach it from a technical aspect. The offerings for web 2.0 and CMS tools offer an abundance of tech solutions. For online courses, instructors should consider ways to communicate with students prior to he beginning of the course. For many successful online instructors found that a simple letter to the students with essential information can alleviate many frustrations on the part of instructors and the students. (Simonson)

•  Establish a set of guidelines for appropriateness. As an introductory assignment, have students follow a link to netiquette guidelines or create their own.

• Be very specific about the quality and level of posts you expect. Be prepared to demonstrate and reiterate what you want in several ways for students who are unfamiliar with online learning.

How will his role, as a trainer, change in a distance learning environment?

He will become more of a facilitator

His management of the learning will be more apparent

There will be additional communication ideas and more technical aspects

He will have to become a technical expert

There will be some naysayers, and he will have to market and promote the Course application and learning CMS

What steps should the trainer take to encourage the trainees to communicate online?

·        Use the internet web tools such as Emodo,  twitter, Facebook, social media

·        Encourage asynchronous discussion through the use of wikis.

·        Wikis encourage collaboration.

·        Use share board tools, media which allow users to participate in live discussions.

·        Post a discussion area where discussion is pertinent and worthwhile.

·        Post interesting thought provoking questions which require the learner to do independent research.

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References

Simonson, M., Smaldino, S., Albright, M., & Zvacek, S. (2009). Teaching and learning at a distance: Foundations of distance education (4th ed.) Boston, MA: Pearson.