Week 3 - Learing Log - The Readings

Q: What is distance learning?

As stated by the USDLA: "The acquisition of knowledge and skills through mediated information and instruction, encompassing al technologies and other forms of learning at a distance." It does not simply mean the teaching of whole courses, but also the use of the Internet or other technology (low or high) in the classroom.

Q: What are the pros and cons of this mode of instruction?

Pros: As listed in the Roblyer text pg. 221:
1. Fast access to info.
2. Access to experts not available locally.
3. Fast communication to groups.
4. Communication resources to support collaboration.
5. Access to learning materials.
6. Access to courses and lessons not locally available.
7. Access to education for homebound students.
8. Learning communities support collaboration.
9. Lesson ideas from multiple sources.
10. Increased interaction among students and between students and teachers.

Cons:
1. Digital Divide - increasing the gap in education between those who have, and those who have not.
2. Breakdown in development and socialization skills.
3. Better as support to traditional approaches.
4. Curriculum alignment in virtual schools.
5. Teacher certification.
6. Accreditation.
7. Funding.
8. Less FTF interaction.
9. Technical problems.

Q: What does URL stand for and what is its function on the Internet?

A uniform resource locator (URL) is used as an internet address for an organization's website.

Q: What is a bookmark and how do you create one?

Is a copy of a favorite website that is organized into a list. Simply create one by going to Bookmarks Menu and click on Add Bookmark when you are at the URL of your favorite site.

Q: What are the major forms of Internet communication?

(Asynchronous)
1. Email.
2. Listserv
3. Bulletin Boards
4. Blogs
(Synchronous)
5. Chatrooms
6. IM
7. Video Conferencing
(Cyber Collaborations)
8. MUDs, MOOs, avatar spaces