Distance Education is becoming more widely used. It is great
for those who are unable to attend a class. Distance education
is planned learning that occurs in a different geographical
location than the instruction.
Distance education requires a well-planned system of instruction
and communication. Accessibility for disabled students is also a
must.
Distance teaching is the pedagogical elements that the teacher
uses in delivering instructions to the places where they aren't
physically.
Distance learning is from the perspective of the students. It is
closely related to distance teaching.
Real-time distance education allows students who are
hospitalized or otherwise unable to attend school to receive an
education.
Distance education is primarily heard of at the college level,
however, elementary and secondary institutions use it also.
"Asynchronous" distance education allows student to use their
time to learn at their own pace.
To keep the student included in school activities and learning
there should be e-newsletters, web pages and homework hotlines
available.
Issues in utilizing distance education:
- accessing equipment
- training
- how the student will be assessed
Online courses allow higher learning institutions to provide an
educational opportunity to a broader section of the population.
Online distance learning is also effective for disabled students
who may be unable travel to or access a campus.
Online courses use virtual tours in their teaching. Classroom
teachers can also utilize virtual tours.
Webquest is a wonderful tool that is structured and scaffolded
to assist students in their research. It involves utilizing the
Internet which is overflowing with information that is easily
accessed.
Universal Design for Learning (UDL) enhances the design of
products by making them usable to more individuals of varying
abilities.
SECTION 508 of the Rehabilitation Act Amendments
requires electronic and information technology be
accessible to those with a disability.
Web Accessibility Tools
Web Access Tools
http://trace.wisc.edu/world/web
Evaluation Tool
http://validator.w3.org
A FREE service that checks web documents for conformance to
W3C recommendations and other standards.