Not You Technology and Distance Learning

According to some sources, distance learning has been around since 1834. Yes, that’s right! Colleges in London were offering diplomas without classroom attendance, and they still are today! However, learning access has changed a great deal since then. With the modern day computer, webcams, VOIP and videoconferencing, many more subjects can be taught in a virtual environment.

For example, a philosophy class can be conducted via videoconference. With interactive discussions and instructor input, the student receives a complete classroom experience. Each student can see and hear the other members of class and the instructor. this technology has created the true “virtual classroom.”

Science lab reports for biology classes can be completed and submitted over the Internet via Blackboard-type classroom programs. Students can interact on a discussion board and answer quizzes given by the instructor.

Even speeches can be recorded on a webcam and emailed to the speech instructor or posted online.

Live chatting has also added to the virtual classroom in distance learning. In this way, the instructor can directly quiz one student. The entire class can also participate in the collaborative chat.