Discussion Threads & Take-aways

 

The P.E.D. discussion forum is comprised of some of the more salient concerns, issues, and reflections facing current distance educations learning environments. As a discussion forum transition, question prompts will include, but are not limited to:

 

Learning new teaching tools is often a daunting task. Especially after accomplished careers, where they are sometimes faced with adopting new methods mid-stream, it often seems that students are more technologically literate. Can teachers be empowered by innovations in distance education e-learning environments instead of feeling intimidated?

 

Given the different age groups of online students , many non-traditional aged already working in their chosen professions, how does such contribute to, or detract from a community based learning environment?

 

How are new innovations and applications of elearning environments designed for achieving effective results? What are the target areas of topics and levels of literacy?

 

Are students truly engaged in the learning process? Current smart classrooms provide significant ease in presenting lesson materials, as well as engage student technological interests, but which presentation platforms promote lasting connections to lesson topics beyond being mere bells and whistles?

 

How can instructors best promote a sense of online community that is conducive for critical thinking skills?

 

The single most prevalent area of concern by a majority of educators is their most valued commodity: time. Will new innovations help manage time as educators are ask to include more and more material? How long will it take to learn and implement elearning tools, and will such incorporation in the classroom help?

 

What are among the most prevant student opinions of D.E. learning experiences? How do they compare with on-campus experiences?