Coming into this course, I wasn't sure what to expect - would we be expected to program? Are we going to talk about technical specifics of the systems required to support web-based learning? What exactly is the essence of this subject anyhow?
Pleasantly, I was surprised to find that this quarter will be very involved in finding a way to better the world, as well as how to make money from this kind of work. I spent the majority of my undergrad concentrating on the former, so I'm excited to revisit those roots - but I have little experience in the latter, and that will be a big help to my understanding on the subject (as well as my student loan payments!)
The essence of web-based learning design is in bringing new experiences to new people. From those that live in an area or community of the world that don't have computer technology or internet access, to those living in large wealthy metropolitan areas with almost unlimited access, there are benefits in cost and the level of comprehension. Additionally, giving access to new information and resources to a group that previously had little or none can greatly improve their development, competitive edge in a world market of goods and labor, and their social capital for cultural understanding.
On the matter of profit in this work, the professor seemed to have a great model: make some money here, so you can use it here. Much of the work that is needed isn’t well-funded, and making those products happen depends on someone that can work for little or no pay. To do that, you’ve got to make the money elsewhere. I thought that the choice to use these skills in that way is perfect, I hope that I can work out a similar arrangement in the future.
I’m especially excited to see where this work can take adults – they are often looking to learn more complex and finessed information that I think web-based learning environments can suit and supplement well. The piece I like most about adult learning is that they’re often not starting from the beginning. With children, you often need to work on the fundamentals before you can build on that, but adults bring a wealth of experiences that you can use to build on. Even if those experiences aren’t a perfect match for the current topic, allowing them to use what they already know to do something new is the best way I’ve found anyone to get excited about learning.
I’m hoping to get more ideas for how web-based environments can be successful, and even more importantly, what NOT to do. I’m very aware of the tendency to in a technology-related field to use technology just because it’s cool and the new fad, not because it is actually helpful. In education, because each topic builds on the last progressively, if something is taught in a poorly-constructed way it can jeopardize the person’s future learning as well.
I’m excited to get started.
