According to Siemens, “people who traditionally found face to face communication was primary are starting to realize that they can have really meaningful relationships through online media” (Laureate Education, 2008). Communication has greatly evolved since the days of the pony express and the telegraph machine. With the innovations of Skype and the capabilities of EVO people can communicate face-to-face in the virtual world setting. Social networks such as Twitter, blogs, and Facebook are also other avenues that provide instant feedback in regards to communication. The innovation of the telephone has also taken on a whole new technique in how people communicate. In my classroom, it is very rare that I pick up an actual telephone and call a parent. I have found that I receive a quicker response when I send them an email or a text message. The days of utilizing a landline for a house phone is almost obsolete. Today, most people communicate by way of the cell phone. However, not just any cell phone but a smartphone. Most smartphones have very similar capabilities as a computer.
In Cathy Marziali’s blog post on communication, http://cathymarzialiedtech.blogspot.com/, I was intrigued to learn about the numerous online communication technologies that she referenced in her post. I also agree with Cathy’s statement about online communication allowing learners to interact and connect with others without restrictions. In Kaija Spencer’s blog, http://edtech4teachers.blogspot.com/, I totally agree that communication is an essential component in distance education. Without effective communication the success of online education could be jeopardized.
Laureate Education, Inc. (2008). Principles of Distance Education [DVD]. The Future of Distance Education. Baltimore: Author.
Cora:
ReplyDeleteI too believe that communication is an essential part of a distance learning program, but I remember the first online courses that I took had minimal communication. This must have been over 10 years ago when we were just getting used to e-mail and going to websites. I am impressed that you contact your parents by e-mail! Most of the my students' parents don't speak English or even know how to use a computer. I can imagine a day when we can send an e-mail in English, and then it gets automatically translated into whatever language is used for the destination.
By the way, I have 1-to-1 computers for all of the students in my classroom. Yes, my students log in to their Ning accounts everyday and write in the e-journals. I have found that this works best as an everyday activity to get the students accustomed to being part of an everyday "conversation".
I agree that it seems that landlines are a thing of the past. I have found that communicating with parents via email and text are a more effective means of communication also.
ReplyDeleteThere is a rumor that soon there will be video cameras in classrooms so teachers and parents can have access to the classroom throughout the day. I like innovation, but I hope this rumor remains a rumor.
Cora
ReplyDeleteI agree that online media and virtual technology allows people to have relationships at a distance. I believe the face to face communication software like skype is a great tool. I can't help but feel there is still something to be said about being able to see someone in person, notice their body language, and the exchange of a handshake from one man to the next to seal a deal. I understand these advancements and understand the situations in which they are helpful. I just do not feel like these advancements should be viewed as having the same effect as face to face encounters.