Distance Learning (Voice Over IP)
1. Distance learning uses voice over IP to let teachers and students communicate over video conferencing. The teacher and students log into an internet video conferencing program and the teacher teaches a lesson in front of a video camera. Her video is played real-time on a screen in front of the students. There are also video cameras in each classroom so the teacher is able to see the students. Using voice over IP technology, the videos play real-time over the internet so the teacher and students are able to communicate.
2. Advantages - (1) school systems are able to save money because they only have to hire one teacher to teach at multiple schools; (2) schools can offer courses to a small group of students; and (3) students can learn from teachers or experts from anywhere in the world because there are no constraints on location.
3. Disadvantages - (1) participants may feel that the classes are impersonal; (2) the classes may be boring because there is very little interaction; and (3) the videos may lag due to slow internet connections.
4. Social and Ethical Issues - (1) globalization - Distance learning allows students from any place in the world to connect with each other to learn; (2) people and machines - Users may find the lack of personal connection a hindrance to learning. A solution is that teachers could meet face-to-face for one class a month and have the rest of the classes over video so there is some personal connection; and (3) reliability - If the internet is down for either the students or the teacher, the class is not able to meet. A solution for this is to be aware of this fact and have the teacher make room in their lesson schedule for any days without connection.
No comments:
Post a Comment