Horizon Issues 7. Distance Learning Return to Issues List Many of the elements of "distance learning" being heralded as benefits to schools will be revealed as ineffective, costly and flawed. The same issues which undercut the impact of instructional TV will surface. Just as these ineffective elements drop out and away, other elements (such as some forms of online learning) will survive and thrive. The original enthusiasm for almost anything offering distance will shift to enthusiasm for quality. Teacher groups will organize to challenge the effectiveness of distance learning programs as some companies try to replace human teachers with classroom robotics. Learning More Do a search at Electric Library and read at least 2 articles that cast light on this trend or issue. Possible search questions: What are the greatest advantages of distance learning? distance learning critics and distance learning Visit and read through several of the following: TEAMS Distance Learning... for K12 Educators The Distance Learning Resource Network (DLRN) Eastern Nebraska Distance Learning Consortium Global SchoolNet Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in the issues pages are those of the author, Jamie McKenzie. They are meant to stimulate thought and inquiry about issues and trends, but they do contain some speculation and projection about the future. The author cannot be held responsible if some predictions and trends do not materialize or continue, especially if readers attempt to reverse some of the more disturbing trends. Listing of articles to read should not be interpreted as endorsement of the contents, products or ideas by the author. Credits: The photographs were shot by Jamie McKenzie. Copyright Policy: Materials published in From Now On may be duplicated in hard copy format for educational, nonprofit school district and university use only and may also be sent from person to person by e-mail. All other uses, transmissions and duplications are prohibited unless permission is granted expressly.