0102 Distance Education Technology
0102 Distance Education Technology
Format: Print-based core module with CD-ROM audio and video supplements
Author: Jane K. Terpstra
CEUs: 3.0
Distance education may use many technologies to deliver programs and courses to learners. Some technologies support one-way content delivery in which instructors provide instructional materials to the learners. Other technologies support two-way, interactive instruction among the instructor and learners. Distance educators, therefore, must have an understanding of needs assessment and develop their skills in matching needs with appropriate technologies.
Learn . . .
- How to conduct a needs assessment for technology planning
- Critical success factors in managing change
- Traditional and digital one-way technologies for delivery of content such as print, audio, and video
- Traditional and digital two-way technologies for interaction such as audio conferencing, video conferencing, collaboration tools, and tools for reflection
- Uses, benefits, limitations, and considerations in the use of two-way, interactive technologies
- Equipment needs for various technologies
- Support requirements essential to decision-making
- Possible future technologies for distance education
Content Overview
This module explains, in non-technical detail, the basic technologies used for one-way and two-way delivery of distance education. Traditional one-way approaches of print, audio, and video are contrasted with similar one-way digital technologies. Two-way technologies are explained as they pertain to distance education. The module describes equipment and support requirements essential to successful programs and courses. The module also offers a glimpse into possible future technologies for distance education.
This module presents information on assessing needs and applying the results to decision-making and planning processes. Roles of administrators, instructors, and learners are considered. Success factors in managing change are also included in the module.
Project (Self-Paced Track)
You may choose between three options in completing a project which is a requirement of this module. The first option, a project paper, involves planning for technology by assessing and selecting media for your organization or for a particular program. In completing the project, you will be applying the module information to analyze the situation, choose appropriate technology or technologies, and discuss some of the elements involved in planning next steps. The second option is activities-based. This involves completing the Handbook Activities and then completing a planning document (2-3 pages) explaining your recommended next steps for your organization or program. Option three is a work-based project in which you submit a piece of work that you develop for your job or organization that incorporates pertinent module concepts and principles. The piece of work may be a website, a planning document, a proposal, an article, an instructional plan, or other product. In addition, you may discuss a customized option with your Certificate Program Advisor.About the Author
Jane K. Terpstra is a life-long educator and learner with over 30 years of experience in higher education. She has worked with all forms of multimedia over time including print, video, broadcast, computer, videodisc, video conferencing, and web instruction. Jane is a graduate of Iowa State University (B.S.), Cleveland State University (M.Ed.), and the University of Iowa (Ed.S.). She has taught high school as well as undergraduate and graduate courses. In addition, she has served as an instructional designer, consultant, and evaluator at the University of Iowa, Iowa Public Television, South Carolina Public Television, the University of South Carolina, Virginia Commonwealth University, the Virginia Community College System, and the University of Wisconsin-Madison.