Distance Learning - Distance Education ... How Far Away? - Part 1

Summary: Authors note: I recently dug this up. I wrote it in Sept 2000. After reading it again I realize it is still relevant. I must admit the slightest pang of professional jealousy watching my counterparts involved in the new playground when I have not had the time. Of course looking at distance education from afar I have had some questions, even concerns with it as a viable means of education. We live in an age where we email when a phone call should be made, and phone when ...

Authors note: I recently dug this up. I wrote it in Sept 2000. After reading it again I realize it is still relevant. I must admit the slightest pang of professional jealousy watching my counterparts involved in the new playground when I have not had the time. Of course looking at distance education from afar I have had some questions, even concerns with it as a viable means of education. We live in an age where we email when a phone call should be made, and phone when we should speak in person. It is so easy to hide behind technology. It is difficult for many to know in what medium is the most appropriate to communicate in. On-line has become the recent rage in many organizations and academic institutions. The savings to a company in travel and per diem are certainly compelling. One of the biggest edges I can see thus far is the ability to spread a class over a longer period of time. I have felt from day one in this business that trying to learn to do something non-trivial (program in a new language, design and implement telemetry systems, etc