Brave New Learning Worlds

This article drew me in immediately because I am such a proponent of distance education credited to the positive experience with the Comet program. Dr. Saba covered all aspects of change, including Administration, Instruction, and Counseling. The reading made me consider aspects of DE that I had never imagined: how schools are reimbursed by seat and not by accomplishments and learning contracts; how the instructional designer would become an integral part of the course creation as would videographers. I wonder if actors/voice actors be used in place of the instructors or perhaps require the instructors to have more of a background in dramatic skills.

Because today's students want it now, and want it easy to figure out, future learners will be even more demanding. An LMS of the future from the user point of view would have to be totally transparent, portable (accessible from mobile devices), universal in usability and all-inclusive while also meeting individual learning needs. One login would give access to course content, video conferencing, private or public journals, and resources. Everything in one place, accessible with one login and across the line compatibility with all databases and systems.

However, if I were to design an LMS for the future, it's difficult to imagine creating something other than a blended solution. Although this "brave new [learning] world" could solve a myriad of financial, logistical and time problems, in my imagination, it seems somewhat sterile and impersonal. I can't imagine it replacing the need entirely for brick and mortar institutions. There's a different sensation when you share physical space with another during an emotional exchange such as sharing aloud a creative writing piece or scene in an acting class. Or handling beakers, pipettes and Bunsen burners in chemistry class. Or having an instructor show you how to hold the scalpel when dissecting a shark's brain. Or climbing a bank of a river to identify plants and trees.

As far as campus life, there is a lot to be said for a young to person to have to navigate the world on his/her own- how to find the Chem Lab or get from your job in time for Creative Writing class.
Will these cyberspace degrees offer Socializing 101: Learn how to look another person in the eye!"

I am hoping that as Distance Education offers us the chance to reach and connect with people around the globe, we don't lose the ability to connect with someone right next to us.