subject: Distance Learning: Implementing the Newest Technologies [print this page] Distance Learning: Implementing the Newest Technologies
Leaving the stereotypes in the past
As a rule, people are reluctant to part with their prejudices. It is more comfortable to live in accordance with habitual schemes instead of going beyond the scope. Campus learning is considered to be more effective than distance one. Still, physical presence does not presuppose acquiring the material of the lecture. Making notes does not presuppose comprehensive understanding of the class discussion. In other words, the question whether campus learning is more effective than the distance one is rather disputable.
Habitual home environment and convenient schedule are beneficial for the distant learners enhancing their learning achievements. Learners do not need to get accustomed to new surroundings and other students in the group. They are free to express their opinions disregarding reactions of their fellow students or professors. Physical distance and relative anonymity provides more opportunities for students' self-expression. Surely, effective distance learning requires flexibility and ability to implement the innovative techniques.
Useful hints for enhancing the effectiveness of the learning process
Some of the assignments of the distant courses might seem strange to the learners who get accustomed to hands-written lectures and exercises. It is preferable to rely on experienced developers of the distant programs. They are aimed at involving visual and aural types of memory and choose multimedia exercises considering their effectiveness. Learners are to avoid wasting their time on thoughtless rewriting of the materials or making detailed notes of the lectures. One may rewind the record of the lecture one more time if it is necessary.
Implementing the newest techniques, the contemporary distance programs allow economizing one's time and juggling studies with work or family life. The exercises are aimed at enhancing the effectiveness of the learning process. A successful distant learner has
to be highly motivated;
to be flexible and ready to change one's views of the teaching-learning process;
