Summary on Converting to a Distance Learning Format

Converting to a distance-learning format seems to be in demand for educational institutions, for-profit, and non-profit organizations. Being a learner in a distance-learning environment is convenient, challenging in being committed, determined and open-minded about learning new styles of learning, and being satisfied when the task has met expectation of good grades and learned knowledge because of the available opportunities for learners.

 During this assignment, I had the chance to learn and respect the developing process in distance education. I was able to remember the ADDIE Model processes learned during this course and previous courses. One of the processes I learned was about transiting from a face-to-face (f2f) learning environment to a blended on paper it the processes seem very similar yet different but when using cognitive skills to get the visual needed to put in perspective, it was difficult to do.  For example,  review the table below of the characteristics of transitions observed by Dr. Diane Oblinger, President and CEO of EDUCAUSE, a nonprofit association whose mission are to advance higher education using information technology.

Characteristics of Transitions Oblinger (1999)

Teacher-Centered (Traditional Classroom)	Student-Center (Virtual Classroom)
Lecturing	Coaching
Taking attendance	Logging online
Distribution requirements	Connected learning
Credit hours	Performance standards
Competing	Collaborating
Library collections	Network connections
Passive learning	Active learning
Textbooks	Customized materials

These characteristics of transition look simple to change but it is a systematic process. This process involves critical thinking skills, adjustments and time.  Overall, the information learned during this assignment was very informative and a lot to grasp in a short time frame but great information to have and continue to learn about.

Oblinger, D. G. (1999). Hype, hyperarchy, and higher education. Business Officer, 33(4), 22-24, 27-31.

Simonson, M., Smaldino, S., Albright, M., & Zvacek, S. (2009, p.232). Teaching and learning at a distance: foundations of distance education (4th Ed.). Boston, MA: Pearson.