(IMAESCII516) Article Review 1: 'The History and State of Online Learning' (2015)
Article Reviewed:
Gasevic, Dragan & Siemens, George & Dawson, Shane. (2015). Preparing for the digital university: a review of the history and current state of distance, blended, and online learning.
Book Chapter: The History and State of Online Learning
The reader is treated to a comprehensive overview and historical underpinnings of online learning, coupled with the evolution of different theoretical models that have been applied by education and pedagogical scholars. The paper also makes distinctions on the different learning and teaching models educators have developed over time in the delivery of online courses. Another important aspect of this paper highlights how online learning is not an ‘isolated’ journey for the teacher. Rather, it offered the perspective that teachers are part of a team in a learning ecosystem which includes the students.
It also outlined some of the best practices and questions regarding the shifting focus of learning from the teacher to the learner. Although self-directedness has become the increasing norm in online learning for adult learners, the paper also questioned how assessments and evaluations should also evolve to ensure that learning remains a relevant and valuable activity for all learners and facilitators.
One thing the paper could have expanded would be the question of 'resistance' by higher education institutions. Instead of making online learning a competition vis-à-vis the traditional modes of instruction, I argue that there needs to have a more expanded conversation on how both methods could work together.
Lastly, I believe this is an important read for those beginning their journey as adult educators. Your reading can certainly be branched out into the other perspectives and theories presented in the paper.
Comments