Lindsey DesRochers

UCSP 615 9011 Section 2175

June 14, 2017
Reflection 1

Reflection 1

My journey into the definition of distance education has already evolved immensely. I

currently come from the distance education background already and bring with me prior

knowledge that is both a gift and a setback as I force myself to open up to distance education in

all its glory. And I mean this in the best possible way as my initial definition was messy and

broad. It was a preconceived definition from my prior knowledge and the little research and

readings I had completed. However, I have been trying to learn and take in as I read our

coursework and material from experts around the world, but also my colleagues. It is a humbling

and exciting experience thus far.

My initial definition was stated as the use of various technology-based outlets to

accommodate all learners while using teaching techniques and best practices that individualizes

and personalizes the student-teacher experience. It encompasses a strong support system by

administration resulting in success in the educational realm but also the business realm in terms

of profit and fiscal responsibility using data-driven evidence. This includes but is not limited to,

teacher support and training, professional development of the staff, student support services,

performance reviews, student feedback and input, updated curriculum/design teams, technology

assistance, LMS updates and training, and tools/resources to change over time for meeting goals.

Again, a very messy and convoluted run-on sentence of ideas and terms that I felt Distance

Education encompasses. However, after much reflection on the past few weeks. My definition
has evolved and its focused has taken a bit of a turn. Some of this is thanks to our guest speaker,

Ulrich Bernath but also in Skill Builders like the Mind Map when I was able to take in other

perspectives other than my own.

My definition now includes the student and their learning experience as the focal point.

Distance Education as I see it now, is an individualized learning experience through the use of

various technology-based outlets where the student drives the learning environment. The

instructor facilitates through personalized teaching strategies to enhance the learning experience

for optimal success with maximum accessibility for all. This came about in the last week as I had

been so focused on the leadership and organizational pieces of a distance education program but

our readings have opened my eyes to take some steps back and realize Im missing a few

important pieces. That is, the student and the relationship with instruction. The instruction is the

facilitator but also a crucial aspect in order to create a personalized experience that engages the

learner and keeps them interested in course material and discussions as I am continually

reminded in the readings by Hope Kentnor (2015) and Borje Holmberg (2005). However, the

student-centered aspect is something I had not initially included which looking back seems the

most obvious to include. Furthermore, the reasons behind why Distance Education came about I

am learning is also just as important. Many of our course readings and experts touch or talk

about this idea that students are not held back by the instructors teaching pace or lesson plan

which is essential to the reason behind the success of distance education. Even Peters (2010)

talks about this concept and its benefits. Likewise, I want to be sure to include it in my final

definition as it evolves.