Converting to a Distance Learning Module

In order to convert a learning module from face to face traditional settings to a distance learning module, there are several phases that must take place in order for the distance education learning module to work effectively. Here are the best practices to convert the module.

To move from a face to face environment to a distance learning module that will focus on student centered learning and increase student interactivity, one will need to follow the following framework:

Building the plan phase will involve the facilitator. The plan will consist of the following:

·         Review and plan

·         Review and/or analyze the learning styles of students

·         Determine technology capabilities and resolve software issues that may arise.

·         Assess student needs and distance learning experience, whether past or present

·         Convert content

·         Develop the content and sequence

·         Troubleshoot and resolve software issues

·         Establish a syllabus

·         Methodology

·         Identify strategies for instruction and create/acquire materials

·         Media selection

The second phase of this plan will consist of the facilitation process. It will include:

·         Environment

·         Activities that will promote engagement and involvement of the student and learning

·         Synchronous, asynchronous, and blend environments

·         An organized delivery system

·         Identify media, hardware, and software needs

·         Communication

·         Personalize communications with students for rapport and relationship building

·         Analyze cognitive abilities and modify activities

·         Support

·         Conduct training group sessions to cover instructional guides

·         Obtain feedback on the instructional design and the assessor’s impact on the learning module.

Enhancing the format for distance learning

To encourage high student interactivity in an online setting, the learning environment must be supportive, open, and respectful. One of the first things an instructor can do to help create such an environment is to provide a detailed syllabus that clearly defines expectations for the course in general and specific guidelines for each assignment (Durrington, Berryhill, & Swafford, 2006). The following are options for enhancing the distance learning experiences:

·         Videos

·         Audio Recordings

·         Presentations

·         Interactive graphics

·         Simulations

·         Blogs and/or wikis

·         Podcasting

·         Virtual worlds

·         Emerging technology

References:

Durrington, V., Berryhill, A., & Swafford, J. (2006). Strategies for enhancing student interactivity in an online environment. Retrieved October 18, 2013, from College Teaching: http://www.redorbit.com/news/technology/433631/strategies_for_enhancing_student_interactivity_in_an_online_environment/