Running Head: Reflection of EDIT 5370

Reflection of EDIT 5370 By Karen McNallen EDIT 5370 Dr. Ismahan Arslan-Ari

November 27, 2013

The distance learning class (5370) was an introduction in how to setup and develop distance learning using different 2.0 WEB tools, which I have had little experience. It was a good course in which I felt gave me some new skills to use with the school district in which I work. In fact, I have already used and shared a few things we did during the course. The first thing I learned was to set up a web page. I have never made a web page before, but this was a wonderful experience for me. I am learning that I probably made each page too busy, but it was fun finding U-tube videos and images that related to the topic of that week. I also learned that if I made this a public site I would need to make sure that I did not infringe on images and videos that have a copyright. That was an eye-opener for me. The first week assignment I learned about how to setup a Web page and we learned how to use a voice thread to introduce ourselves. I think it is a great way for teachers to share and have students create projects and share them. It can be a new way of creating a power point, flipping a classroom, and having students present their projects. I have already shared with my teachers, and have had a workshop on ways to utilize voice threads. We learned about the history behind distance learning and found out that it had been in existence since 1840 when Isaac Pittman created correspondence by mail. That was very enlightening. It makes one think of how distance education has progressed over the years and within a short period recently, we have changed distance education by the use of telecommunication advancements. Theories of distance education such as Post Fordist identifies to a constructivist point of view. A constructivist believes that learning should be flexible and sensitive to the learning of the whole child. Ottos Peters theory is one in which I can relate.

Module 6 has been beneficial in teaching about the different models that design the way distance-learning classes are constructed. The blended model provides immediate feedback on learners questions and timely technical support. It provides formative evaluations using short questions checking for understanding, it provides clearer instructions to learners, rather than using an online delivery format alone, and it can use humor to have learners feel emotionally refreshed and engaged. This is the type of distance learning class that I experienced with Texas Tech University. If given the opportunity to teach distance learning class, I think that this would be the most productive to use. Module 8 taught us how to build a Syllabus. It was very rewarding. I have never had to create a syllabus to this degree. I want to save the one that I created in case I need to do this again. In fact, I think for Dr. Smith and the Global Collaboration classes I am taking; it will help me design what I would like to do towards my studies. It might even help towards a dissertation topic. Module 9, Distance Learning Policy and Management, taught us all the vital parts of planning and implementing distance education courses. The district in which I am employed is at the beginning stages of talking about distance learning. The knowledge that I have gained will be beneficial in supporting and becoming a member of the planning team. I can also give guidance in creating courses. In Module 10, I learned about copyright issues. It definitely opened my eyes up to issues and how to use the four factor fair use criteria. I plan on enlightening my teachers on copyright issues and making sure that we are in compliance to the laws.

In conclusion, I believe that EDIT 5370 has given me the necessary tools to become a leader for my district in the area of distance education. The knowledge that I have gained will help in creating distance education courses that will advance our students, teachers, parents, administration, and community. The partnership that we have made with the community college and the University will only increase in the value we have for each other. House Bill 5 is already creating some ventures that I think a distance learning community could establish by creating courses that students could do online that would lend itself towards the new graduation endorsements. Our district is looking at the STEM endorsement and wondering how we can get five science courses in four years. This could be the answer for us. This course has also prepared me to think about my future. Once I complete my PhD, I would like to teach at the university level and teaching online courses.