Mostly recently I began to implement a program that has traditionally been taught as a site-based course to a blended method of delivery. Yes, this was difficulty in that so many learners were conditioned to the older way of learning; the teacher physically in front of the student. The process of changing the mindset was not as easy as one would think. Time management and self-discipline were two of the bigger issues. Once those were addressed however a continuous concern, I began to see learning interface a new outcome.
As I have listened to the various views on leadership and online learning, I am finding that that the outcomes per each program are based on the expectations, visions, and goals of the organization. This is why I find constructive planning and assessment of needs important in the development of online programs and learning communities. There must be a well supported need and a structure to support the needs of the learner. Just saying we want something different is not a valid reason.
Secondly, when developing an online platform there must be room for growth and sustainability. A program will not advance if there are no means to continue implementation of services after a 1-3 year window. There must be adequate funding, professional learning, and communications of shared goals and objectives. This improves buy-in and outreach for persons who are transitioning over to online learning. I have seen this work, but it will take time which requires that you begin at the start of your programs' services.
Lastly,when introducing the concept of online learning, I can speak from first hand experiences. There must be a well communicated goal and plan. There must also be personnel who can manage and implement the programs' goals and objectives. Ultimately there must be evidence that a successful outcome is obtainable. Too often programs fail prematurely based on the lack of stakeholder affiliation with program developers, etc. The relationships that can develop from an online experience are very important to both the learner and the educator. Not only are these programs convenient they are vital for the success of a global ready society.
As I have listened to the various views on leadership and online learning, I am finding that that the outcomes per each program are based on the expectations, visions, and goals of the organization. This is why I find constructive planning and assessment of needs important in the development of online programs and learning communities. There must be a well supported need and a structure to support the needs of the learner. Just saying we want something different is not a valid reason.
Secondly, when developing an online platform there must be room for growth and sustainability. A program will not advance if there are no means to continue implementation of services after a 1-3 year window. There must be adequate funding, professional learning, and communications of shared goals and objectives. This improves buy-in and outreach for persons who are transitioning over to online learning. I have seen this work, but it will take time which requires that you begin at the start of your programs' services.
Lastly,when introducing the concept of online learning, I can speak from first hand experiences. There must be a well communicated goal and plan. There must also be personnel who can manage and implement the programs' goals and objectives. Ultimately there must be evidence that a successful outcome is obtainable. Too often programs fail prematurely based on the lack of stakeholder affiliation with program developers, etc. The relationships that can develop from an online experience are very important to both the learner and the educator. Not only are these programs convenient they are vital for the success of a global ready society.
Resources:
Conrad, R., & Donaldson, J. A. (2011). Engaging the online learner: Activities and resources for creative instruction (Updated ed.). San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass.
Posted by:
Melvin Alonza Lowe, III, EdD
Post Doctoral Student
Walden University
MS - Instructional Technology and Design
lowemelvin724@gmail.com
Posted by:
Melvin Alonza Lowe, III, EdD
Post Doctoral Student
Walden University
MS - Instructional Technology and Design
lowemelvin724@gmail.com
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteMelvin
ReplyDeleteI agree that providing instruction online needs to have a valid purpose, not just to do it. All instruction, online or traditional, needs to have the learner and their needs taken into consideration. Many of the trainings and process changes in my organization we provide through online means, either a webinar or our LMS. However, recently we visited some of our schools (the district serves 50,000 students) and found that the elementary front office personnel never could attend the online offerings without actually still working the front office. Their leadership in the building would not let them go to a quiet place to learn. That said, we now know that for this group of learners, a face to face or at least hybrid will be more beneficial in the end for them to learn and meet the objectives and goals.
Hi Melvin,
ReplyDeleteYou spoke about taking a traditional course and turning it into a blended learning course. I was curious to know what challenges that you faced with designing the program to be a blended learning. How has that shaped how you work in an online learning environment?
I liked how you connected our topic to a personal and real-world example.
ReplyDeleteTeri, when I considered the concept I had to look at the learners that I was going to impact. They all wanted to see this method they just did not have any experiences with this type of learning. My development was from their need. This made the concept doable for the students. Thanks for responding.
ReplyDeleteBests,
Dr. Melvin Alonza Lowe, III, EdD - lowemelvin724.blogspot.com