MODES OF LEARNING IN ALTERNATIVE EDUCATION

COVERAGE: Distance Education E-Learning Synchronous Learning Asynchronous Learning Open Learning Home Study Self-Directed Learning Resource-Based Learning Ladderized Education System

LESSON 1 : DISTANCE EDUCATION

- a field of education that focuses on the pedagogy and andragogy, technology, and instructional systems design that aim to deliver education to students who are not physically "on site“

- According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, “is a process to create and provide access to learning when the source of information and the learners are separated by time and distance, or both.

- is the process of creating an educational experience of equal qualitative value for the learner to best suit their needs outside the classroom

Distance education courses that require a physical on-site presence for any reason including the taking of examinations is considered to be a hybrid or blended course of study. This emerging technology is becoming widely used in universities and institutions around the globe. With the recent trend of technological advance, distance learning is becoming more recognized for its potential in providing individualized attention and communication with students internationally.

TECHNOLOGIES USED IN DELIVERY:

SYNCHRONOUS TECHNOLOGY- a mode of online delivery where all

participants are "present" at the same time requiring a timetable to be organized

Examples: Web based VoIP Telephone Videoconferencing Web Conferencing

ASYNCHRONOUS TECHNOLOGY- a mode of online delivery where participants

access course materials on their own schedule. Students are not required to be together at the same time.

Examples: Audiocassette E-mail Message Board Forums Print Materials Voice Mail/fax Videocassette/DVD

TYPES OF DISTANCE EDUCATION COURSES:

Correspondence conducted through regular mail

Internet conducted either synchronously or asynchronously

Telecourse/Broadcast, in which content is delivered via radio or television

CD-ROM, in which the student interacts with computer content stored on a CD-ROM

PocketPC/Mobile Learning where the student accesses course content stored on a mobile device or through a wireless server

Integrated distance learning, the integration of live, in-group instruction or interaction with a distance learning curriculum

MAJOR BENEFITS OF USE: Expanding access: Distance education can

reach underserved populations of students who cannot attend a school that offers the educational services they desire, perhaps because they live too far away.

Emerging market opportunities: Distance education fuels the public's need for lifelong learning in education by providing access to learners not in the traditional k-12 age group.

Adapting to new technology and environments: Educational institutions may adopt distance education as a means to adapt to the rapid changes in technology being used in education today.

LESSON 2 : E-LEARNINGalso known as Electronic Learning, is a term which is commonly used, but does not have a common definition

It seems to be used for web-based distance education, with no face-to-face interaction. However, also much broader definitions are common.

GOALS AND BENEFITS OF E-LEARNING:

Improved performance: A 12-year meta-analysis of research by the U.S. Department of Education found that higher education students in online learning generally performed better than those in face-to-face courses.

Increased access: Instructors of the highest caliber can share their knowledge across borders, allowing students to attend courses across physical, political, and economic boundaries. Recognized experts have the opportunity of making information available internationally, to anyone interested at minimum costs.

Convenience and flexibility to learners: In many contexts, eLearning is self-paced and the learning sessions are available 24x7. Learners are not bound to a specific day/time to physically attend classes. They can also pause learning sessions at their convenience.

COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGIES USED IN E-LEARNING:

Asynchronous activities E-mail, blogs, wikis, and discussion boards. The idea here is that participants may

engage in the exchange of ideas or information without the dependency of other participants involvement at the same time.

 Synchronous activities Face-to-face discussion, virtual classrooms

and meetings can often use a mix of communication technologies.

DEVELOPMENTS:E-Learning 2.0 The term e-Learning 2.0 is used to refer to new

ways of thinking about e-learning inspired by the emergence of Web 2.0.

3D Virtual Learning Environments As another example, Second Life has recently

become one of the virtual classroom environments used in colleges and universities, including University of Edinburgh (UK), Harvard University (USA), and the Open University (UK). Language learning in virtual worlds is the most widespread type of education in 3D virtual spaces, with many universities, mainstream language institutes and private language schools using 3D virtual environments to support language learning.

Computer-based learning Computer Based Learning, sometimes abbreviated

to CBL, refers to the use of computers as a key component of the educational environment. While this can refer to the use of computers in a classroom, the term more broadly refers to a structured environment in which computers are used for teaching purposes. The concept is generally seen as being distinct from the use of computers in ways where learning is at least a peripheral element of the experience (e.g. computer games and web browsing).

Computer-based training Computer-based training (CBT) services are where

a student learns by executing special training programs on a computer relating to their occupation. CBT is especially effective for training people to use computer applications because the CBT program can be integrated with the applications so that students can practice using the application as they learn.

Computer-supported collaborative learning (CSCL)

"Computer-supported collaborative learning (CSCL) is one of the most promising innovations to improve teaching and learning with the help of modern information and communication technology.

Technology-enhanced Learning (TEL) Technology enhanced learning (TEL) has the

goal to provide socio-technical innovations (also improving efficiency and cost effectiveness) for e-learning practices, regarding individuals and organizations, independent of time, place and pace. The field of TEL therefore applies to the support of any learning activity through technology.

Computer-aided assessment Computer-aided Assessment (also but less

commonly referred to as E-assessment), ranging from automated multiple-choice tests to more sophisticated systems is becoming increasingly common. With some systems, feedback can be geared towards a student's specific mistakes or the computer can navigate the student through a series of questions adapting to what the student appears to have learned or not learned.

 Computer-assisted language learning Computer-assisted language learning (CALL) is a

form of computer-based learning which carries two important features: bidirectional learning and individualized learning. It is not a method. CALL materials are tools for learning. The focus of CALL is learning, and not teaching. CALL materials are used in teaching to facilitate the language learning process. It is a student-centered accelerated learning material, which promotes self-paced accelerated learning.

Virtual learning environment A virtual learning environment (VLE) is

a software system designed to support teaching and learning in an educational setting, as distinct from a Managed Learning Environment, (MLE) where the focus is on management.

ROLE CHANGES FOR TEACHERS AND STUDENTS:

TEACHERS handing down knowledge to students and

being the center of students’ attention, teachers guide as students construct

activities helpers of students as they complete the

assigned tasks. interacts with students primarily to facilitate

difficulties in using the target language (grammar, vocabulary, etc.) that arise when interacting with the computer and/or other people.

STUDENTSLearners must negotiate meaning

and assimilate new information through interaction and collaboration with someone other than the teacher, be that person a classmate or someone outside of the classroom entirely.

Learners must also learn to interpret new information and experiences on their own terms.

LESSON 3 : SYNCHRONOUS LEARNING

refers to a group of people learning the same things at the same time in the same place

the type of pedagogy practiced in most schools and undergraduate programs, but not in graduate programs.

Lecture is an example of synchronous learning. But, with the advent of web conferencing tools, people can learn at the same time in different places as well.

SYNCHRONOUS TECHNOLOGIES:

Web based VoIP is based on the concept of click to talk, which

is a form of Web-based communication where a person clicks an object (i.e. button, image, or text) to request an immediate connection with another person in real-time either by phone call, Voice-over-Internet-Protocol (VoIP), or text. Click to talk requests are most commonly made through websites but can also be initiated by hyperlinks placed in email, blogs, wikis, flash animations, or video, and other Internet-based object or user interface.

Call flow Caller goes to a webpage and find the

destination the caller want to communicate, a caller will be required or without a login process for identification, then click the object from the webpage which already connect to a phone or IP number, meanwhile, caller will also automatically allocate a caller number to make the communication link to the call receiver.

Current Market Web based VoIP can be used for any kind of

web communication services, such as yellow page service, web conference, eMap, web toll free number or elearning technology.

Videoconferencing A videoconference (also known as a videoteleconference) is a set of interactive telecommunication technologies which allow two or more locations to interact via two-way video and audio transmissions simultaneously. It has also been called visual collaboration and is a type of groupware. It differs from videophone in that it is designed to serve a conference rather than individuals

Web conferencing is used to conduct live meetings, training, or

presentations via the Internet. In a web conference, each participant sits at his or her own computer and is connected to other participants via the internet. This can be either a downloaded application on each of the attendees' computers or a web-based application where the attendees access the meeting by clicking on a link distributed by e-mail (meeting invitation) to enter the conference.

LESSON 4 : ASYNCHRONOUS LEARNING

a student-centered teaching method that uses online learning resources to facilitate information sharing outside the constraints of time and place among a network of people.

is based on constructivist theory, a student-centered approach that emphasizes the importance of peer-to-peer interaction. This approach combines self-study with asynchronous interactions to promote learning, and it can be used to facilitate learning in traditional on-campus education, distance education, and continuing education. This combined network of learners and the electronic network in which they communicate are referred to as an asynchronous learning network.

ASYNCHRONOUS TECHNOLOGIES

Audiocassette E-mail Message Board Forums Print Materials Voice Mail/fax Videocassette/DVD

ONLINE RESOURCES USED IN ASYNCHRONOUS

LEARNING email electronic mailing lists threaded conferencing systems online discussion boards wikis, and blogs Course management systems such as

Blackboard, WebCT, Moodle, and Sakai

ROLES OF INSTRUCTORS : The constructivist theory that supports asynchronous

learning demands that instructors become more than dispensers of knowledge; it requires that they become instructional designers, facilitators, and assessors of both grades and their teaching method.

As instructional designers, emphasis is placed on establishing the curriculum, methods and the media through which the content will be effectively delivered. Once the design is in place and executed, the instructor must then facilitate the communication and direct the learning. Establishing a communal spirit is vital, requiring much time commitment from the instructor, who must spend time reading, assessing, reinforcing, and encouraging the interaction and learning that is happening

ROLES OF LEARNERS:The student-centered nature of

asynchronous online learning requires students to be actively involved with and take more responsibility for their own learning. In addition to their normal duties as learners, students are required to:

become proficient with the technology required for the course;

use new methods of communication with both peers and instructors;

strengthen their interdependency through collaboration with their peers.

STRENGTHS OF ASYNCHRONOUS LEARNING

the freedom for students for it gives them to access the course and its instructional materials at any time they choose and from any location with an Internet connection

provide a “high degree of interactivity” between participants who are separated both geographically and temporally and afford students many of the social benefits of face-to-face interaction

Research shows that the time required to initially design an asynchronous course is comparable to that of a traditional synchronous course

Such courses have the potential to reach far more students than a traditional course and course-wide updates or modifications can be disseminated far more quickly and efficiently than traditional lecture models.

Less workload Immediate record of nearly everything that occurs in that

environment. All materials, correspondence, and interactions can be electronically archived.

WEAKNESSES OF ASYNCHRONOUS LEARNING

Expensive course development and initial Research indicates faculty members who are

hesitant to teach in asynchronous learning environments are so because of a lack of technical support provided by their institutions.

Faculty must be technically adept and comfortable enough with the technological tools to optimize their use.

students must also have access to computers and the Internet

knowledge of computer and computer skills

LESSON 5 : OPEN LEARNING it is founded by Celestin Freinet and

Maria Montessori Basically, it is the new trend in our

educational system It is a flexible approach to education and

training designed to make it more accessible, effective and responsive to the individual

It is designed to meet the varied requirements of individuals, e.g. as to what, where, when, and how they actually learn

It relies on well-produced course materials to drive the learning process

It may well be undertaken within an institution as well as at a distance

OPEN LEARNING REPRESENTS:

Open learning represents an alternative education where some of the following circumstances might exist: Trainees are geographically dispersed There is a varied level of existing knowledge Quick response is required to a small discrete

training need Personal factors such as domestic ties, personal

disability or work demands such as shifts or difficulties of getting away from the job prevent attendance at traditional courses. Thus, students are unable to meet normal timetables

Students experience anxiety about returning to formal study

It has been particularly appropriate for upgrading skills in post formal education areas and for continuing professional and adult education

Open learning modules can be developed according to a curriculum plan. They will represent an alternative way by which to achieve a formal qualification, e.g. a Certificate in Supervision, a Diploma in Management or an Associate Diploma in Industrial Electronics

Open learning modules accommodate the changed or additional skills and is seen as a viable solution to the training needs they represent

As a resource-based approach, undertaken most often at a distance, the use of technologies which enrich the learning experience and facilitate communication with the tutor and other learners will continue to be of value.

TECHNOLOGIES IN OPEN LEARNING

The use of computers delivers some elements of open learning training. It provides problem-solving activities illustrating computer application that is most important because of the increasing number of people who will be required to use computers in the workplace.

Facsimile and electronic mail provide a much more rapid communication with trainees at a distance in handling work assignments

Computer conferencing, where a topic is put up on an electronic notice board and accessed by trainees from different locations each adding comments, views, questions and replies over a period of one or two weeks, has interpreting potential particularly in areas of management development

Well-produced interactive print materials are still among the most effective, economic and time-saving methods in dealing with a training need

The more elaborate media, such as interactive video which combines text, video and audio in a fully interactive mode is also a powerful training tool

Equipment is still expensive and course development costs almost prohibitive but like all technologies, they will become less expensive as they are more widely used

LESSON 6 : HOME STUDY also referred to as Home Education, Home

Schooling, Home Learning, Home-based Education

a course of study carried out at home rather than in a classroom

the education of children at home, typically by parents or professional tutors, rather than in a public or private school

Unschooling- a term coined by Holt in 1977 that is completely self-directed. Unschoolers are those who follow this approach.

PIONEERS FOR HOME STUDY

John Caldwell Holt an American educator who coined the term

“unschooling” in 1964, he published a book entitled “How

Children Fail?” which criticized traditional schools

in 1976, he published “Instead of Education”; Ways to Help People Do Things Better

in 1977, he began producing a magazine dedicated to home education: “Growing without Schooling”

in 1981, he wrote a book about home schooling, “Teach Your Own”

Raymond and Dorothy Moore American educational professionals who began

to research the validity of the rapidly growing Early Childhood Education

They asserted that formal schooling before ages 8-12 not only lacked the anticipated effectiveness, but was actually harmful to children

They later stressed that formal schooling was damaging young children academically, socially, mentally and even philosophically

Published works like “Better Late Then Early” in 1975. “Home Grown Kids” in 1981, and “Home School Burnout”

Home education is a natural, experiential aspect of life that occurs as the members of the family are involved with one another in daily living

REASONS FOR TAKING HOME STUDY

Could not get into desired school Poor learning environment at school School does not challenge the child Can give child better education at

home To develop character/morality To cater the special needs/ disability of

the child Parent/s’ career Religious reasons

METHODS AND MATERIALS USED IN HOME STUDY

Unit Studies incorporates several subjects (i.e. arts, history, mathematics

etc) particularly helpful for teaching multiple grade levelsAll-in-one Curricula

also called “school in a box” which are comprehensive packages covering many subjects that usually run for a year

Student-Pace Learning these are learner-paced curriculum workbooks where

students progress at their own speedOnline Education

online schools and educational resources may provide courses of study, educational games, online tests, tutoring, and occupational training

Community Resources educational opportunities like museums, community

centers, athletic clubs, churches, parks etc.

ADVANTAGES OF HOME STUDY

Open Enrollment- the study may enroll at any time of his or her convenience throughout the year

Pace of Learning- the study is responsible for his or her pace of learning and need not finish the entire course obligingly

Convenience- the study no longer has to go anywhere else just to study; he or she can just have it at home

DISADVANTAGES OF HOME STUDY

causes relative isolation of children from peers

some assert that it fails due to lack of qualified educators

no intensive socialization given

LESSON 7 : SELF-DIRECTED LEARNING

views learners as responsible owners and managers of their own learning process

integrates self-management with self-monitoring (Garrison, 1997)

recognizes the significant role of motivation and volition in initiating and maintaining learners’ efforts

where teachers scaffold learning by making learning “visible”

highly collaborative (Temple & Rodero, 1995) an independent learning where individuals take the

initiative, with or without the help of others (Knowles, 1975)

is any increase in knowledge, skill or performance pursued by any individual for personal reasons employing any means, in any place, at any time and at any age.

TECHNOLOGIES EMPLOYED IN SELF-DIRECTED LEARNING

print materialsaudio-visual materialstelephonecomputer

SOME WAYS TO SUPPORT SELF-DIRECTED STUDY: open-learning programsindividualized study optionsnon-traditional course offerings

SOME PROPER ROLES FOR EDUCATORS AND

INSTITUTIONS help the learner identify the starting

point for a learning project encourage adult learners to view

knowledge and truth as contextual be a manager of the learning

experience rather than an information provider

help match resources to the needs of learners

LESSON 8 : RESOURCE-BASED LEARNING

It is where the learners have the responsibility for selecting resources, human or otherwise, that appeal to their own learning preferences, interests and abilities. (Thompson and Henley, 2000)

It involves active participation with multiple resources (books, journals, newspapers, multi-media, web, community, people) where students are motivated to learn about a topic by trying to find information on it in as many ways and places as possible.

ROLES OF MEDIA SPECIALISTS IN A RESOURCE-BASED

LEARNING in-charge in selection of curriculum-

supported materials researcher of most appropriate

information, map or video from resources available

teach students to navigate websites offers latest resources to staff and

students

ROLES OF TEACHERS IN A RESOURCE-BASED

LEARNINGcoachesfacilitates guides learning

IMPLEMENTATION OF RESOURCE-BASED

LEARNING Determine unit goals Generate a timeline for the unit Schedule a research time Develop a rubric that assesses student

artifacts Evaluate student performance Evaluate the unit Determine acceptable student artifacts Thoroughly plan the unit Gather resources in a variety of formats

Advantages of Resource-based Learning Frees teacher from burden of delivering content Allows students control of place, pace and time Allows students of greater choice in resource

materials Resources can be used in multiple units Disadvantages of Resource-based Learning Potentially too many choices for students Potential loss of group learning opportunities Time and effort are required to produce high

quality resources

LESSON 9 : LADDERIZED EDUCATION SYSTEM

is a learning method that combines technical and vocational (tech-voc) courses that are creditable for a collegiate degree.

a facility that allows for vocational courses to be credited as units earned toward a related college degree program.

Some of the degree programs covered include agricultural technology, marine transportation, marine engineering, hotel and restaurant management, tourism management, travel management, nursing, mechanical engineering, technical teacher education, computer science, and information technology.