Three Interesting Facts--Week One

I had no idea that distance learning had the long and varied history that it does. Even though I teach U.S. History, I never made the connection to the fact that distance learning finds its roots in the likes of Benjamin Franklin's discussion groups and the democratic ideas of Andrew Jackson regarding the common man.

When I think of technology, my mind goes to the contemporary technology of today: Computers, the Internet, and on-line meeting capabilities. Even though I am old enough to remember life without these tools, I do not initially think of radio as part of technology, especially educational technology. It was news to me that radio played an important role in educating farmers and that it still does! Furthermore, I knew that television played an important role in educating people regarding Civil Rights, but I did not make the connection to radio.

I knew the armed services used elearning, but I did not know the federal government was so dedicated to elearning as a way to reduce wasteful government spending and educate employees. I accessed the link http://www.golearn.gov/ and found an online course regarding Constitution Day. I found valuable tools for my own teaching in the Current Events section that connects our Bill of Rights to relevant contemporary events and issues.