Distance Learning

The technology keeps coming and coming.

People working in technical jobs/professions must continue to upgrade their skills or face career obsolescence. With free time at a premium, a growing number opt for training/education at home in front of a computer screen. Currently, figures from Chase Bank report about $2 billion per year is spent on distance learning. The figure is expected to grow by 35 percent per year. However, for those people searching for online courses to upgrade skills, the task can be daunting and frustrating.

Synchronous Or

 Asynchronous

Asynchronous distance learning courses consist of education where students use materials (CD ROM, video tape, printed materials, and more) and learn at their own pace. If the student has questions, correspondence often occurs via e-mail. This type of learning tends to lack the personal touch many students require for in-depth understanding, especially for complex subjects. However, the low cost and freedom to choose the time for learning attracts many students. Currently, this is the most frequent type of distance learning offered.

Synchronous learning allows live interaction between student and teacher. Essentially, this form more closely mimics a traditional classroom environment. However, not only is this significantly more expensive (class sizes are usually small), but the learning process does not provide the same high level of interaction found in college/university or learning center classrooms. Gradually, however, as Internet technology advances, many of the drawbacks may be overcome. Although synchronous distance learning remains in early stages of development, it is expected to emerge as the first choice in years ahead.

Voice And Bandwidth

Hearing an instructor’s lecture while maintaining the ability to ask questions lies at the essence of synchronous learning. Until recently, when using a computer at home connected to the Internet, dialup modem bandwidth (usually 43-53kbps) was not sufficient for trouble-free learning sessions. While cable modems and xDSL (broadband Internet connections) continue to grow in popularity, the overwhelming majority of Internet users connect via 56k (V90) or slower modems. Essentially, the lowest common denominator for synchronous learning must be a v90 modem. Also, a quality sound card, headset (wearable microphone and earphones), Internet browser, and reliable connection to the Internet round out the basic requirements. At least one company, the LearnLinc Division of Mentergy, Inc., provides synchronous distance learning software that meets the stringent requirements.

In My Experience

Several weeks ago, Fairfield University undertook a pilot program to assess the viability of the LearnLinc system. A major Connecticut bank partnered with the university in the experiment. From my home, via a 256 kbps cable modem connection, I attend class sessions. In order to take a course, students must enter a Fairfield University Web site URL (Uniform Rescue Locator) specifically set up for the instruction. Upon arrival, they log in (entering user ID and password), don a headset, and interact with the instructor. The first half of the initial session involved orientation to the LearnLink software tools (bank personnel had installed LearnLink software and tested student hardware at a prior time). A voice/sound level check between the instructor and each student ensured a classroom atmosphere. Distance learning commenced.

As with all new, cutting edge technology, minor problems surfaced. However, strength of the LearnLink teaching tools (whiteboard, PowerPoint slides, chatroom interaction, and more) greatly outweighed the small glitches. It became immediately evident that synchronous distant learning holds a bright future. In fact, the LearnLink (and similar) technology coupled with widening availability of reliable broadband Internet connections will gradually change the face of college education and vocational training as we know it today.

A Demonstration

As a reward for my participation in the distance learning experiment, I was provided with a distance learning virtual office. This allows potential students of Fairfield University (or students at similar institutions/organizations) using LearnLink technology to explore the synchronous distance learning environment before committing to expensive (and potentially disappointing) online courses. While the final verdict of the Fairfield University pilot program has not been rendered yet, early feedback appears encouraging. For additional information, send e-mail to the address below. A free demonstration can be arranged.

URLs (Uniform Resource Locators) of interest:

http://www.learnlinc.com

(This is the 233rd of a series of elementary articles designed for surfing the Internet. Next, “Web Site Pet Peeves” is the subject on tap. Stay Tuned. Until next week, happy travels through cyberspace. Previous issues of Internet Info for Real People can be found: http://www.thebee.com. Please e-mail comments and suggestions: rbrand@JUNO.com or editor@thebee.com.)