My personal definition of Distance learning is learning that
one does under the supervision of an instructor or teacher but not directly in their
presence. The leaning is typically conducted over the internet using some
program or software to deliver the instruction. Student interaction is assessed through the
uses of discussion posts or using test or quizzes uses to assess of the student
is retaining the taught material.
Before I started my degree path in instructional design, I was
more of a SME who instructed. This is a much different role than an ID who
created distance learning. Distance learning as to be able to hold the
attention of a student with you are being there to refocus the student. You must
be able to teach a struggling student a complex task without being to stop and
walk them through it step by step. For
me I am taking this class more at the end of my degree path. So, I have a solid
understanding of what my thought on what distance learning are. I am working in
a position where my job is to create distance learning and for me, I am always learning
new ways to improve and make things better.