Blog Assignment Week5

 The Impact of Technology and Multimedia

Introduction

In a previous post, "Defining Distance Learning" (Symonds, 2022), I was tasked with creating a definition of distance learning that expounded on Simonson, Zvacek, and Smaldino's (2019) definition of distance education. Distance learning, also known as distance education, online learning, and e-learning, is officially defined as an "Institutionally-based formal education, where the learning group is separated and where interactive communications technologies are used to connect the instructor, learners, and resources" (Simonson et al., 2019, p. 40). To illustrate my understanding of online learning, I defined the experience as "the obtaining of formal or informal education from an organization using technology to interact and communicate with people in geographically different places" (Symonds, 2022). Both definitions refer to similar components, but the one I would like to focus on today is technology. 

What to Consider

Below are four questions to consider when determining how technology and multimedia have impacted online learning. As you read my answers, think about how your answers may differ or even agree with mine.

1.         What impact do technology and multimedia have on online learning environments? The impact of technology and multimedia on the online learning environment has made the ability to create online learning communities easier and more efficient with the use of tools for communicating and collaborating.

2.         What are the most important considerations an online instructor should make before implementing technology? Before using any technology and multimedia tool, online instructors must consider four things: 

ü  The program's learning objectives – All courses start with the learning objectives or goals. Any activities, technology, multimedia, and other resources must support the learner in obtaining the learning goals (Walden University, n.d.)

ü  What type of technology is needed to obtain the learning objectives - With so many devices, software, and apps to choose from, it is best to determine which technology and multimedia compliments the goals of the course before making your choice (Boettcher & Conrad, 2016).

ü  How well the instructor can use the technology - If you are a novice online instructor, it is wise to use technology and multimedia programs you have used before. If you must use unfamiliar technology, you should undergo training before the course begins (Boettcher & Conrad, 2016).

ü  The learners' ability to access the technology – Consider the learners' ability to use and access the technology before you choose it for a course. If a student has a disability or lives in a rural area, this can determine the type of technology and multimedia to use for the e-learning program.

3.         What implications do usability and accessibility of technology tools have for online teaching? Technology and multimedia instruments are used when teaching and learning online to aid communication and collaboration between the learner, other learners, and the instructor (Simonson et al., 2019). When either the learner or instructor is unable to use or access the technology, it can cause frustration, decrease motivation, and hinder the progress of the course. During the development of the course, Universal Design Principles (Burgstahler, 2019) ought to be applied, and the technology and multimedia should be selected for their ability to provide equal access to all students. In addition, thought should be given to what technologies should be used for students that may not have Internet or Wi-Fi speed or strength that can handle newer software programs (Walden University, 2010)

4.         What technology tools are most appealing to you for online teaching as you move forward in your career in instructional design? I have always found video and audio appealing for online education. Seeing and hearing other people is essential in the learning process. Adults and children learn well from seeing and hearing about others' experiences. There is so much that can be done with these tools and their ability to increase communication.

Conclusion

The impact of technology and multimedia on online learning is indescribable as technology continues to develop rapidly. One of the resources used for this article was filmed in 2010. The speakers in the video referred to the development of mobile software enabling the learner to access their online course via a smartphone, the "new" I-pad, and the advanced Web 2.0. Thirteen years later, dial-up internet is no longer in existence, and Web 2.0 is the norm as web 3.0 is being created with a central focus on developing AI (artificial intelligence). It will take an enormous imagination to speculate on what types of technology and multimedia the next five to ten years will bring to online learning, as the possibilities are infinite. What I believe will not change is the way people learn. Therefore, as Instructional Designers and facilitators of learning opportunities, it will be our duty to determine what new technologies to implement that best meet the learner's needs.

References

Boettcher, J. V., Conrad, R.  (2016). The online teaching survival guide: simple and practical pedagogical tips, (2nd Ed). [[VitalSource Bookshelf version]].  Retrieved from vbk://9781119147701

Burgstahler, S. (2019). Equal Access:  Universal Design. Disabilities, Opportunities, Internetworking, and Technology. Retrieved  https://www.washington.edu/doit/equal-access-universal-design-distance-learning-programs

Simonson, M., Zvacek, S., & Smaldino, S. (2019). Teaching and learning at a distance: Foundations of distance education (7th ed.) Information Age Publishing.

Symonds, A. (2022, November 7). Defining Distance Learning. T.A.L.K. https://teacheralknowledge.blogspot.com/2022/11/defining-distance-learning-if-you.html

Walden University, LLC. (Producer). (2010). Enhancing the online experience [Video file]. Retrieved from https://class.walden.edu

Walden University, LLC. (Producer). (n.d.). Planning and designing online courses [Video file]. Retrieved from https://class.waldenu.edu