Distributed Learning & Assessment

Distributed learning is a form of learning in which a student and teacher are (for the most part) not physically in the same place. Thus it takes advantage of the Internet’s capability of connecting people via video and audio features. Distributed learning can be intermingled with some face-to-face instruction as well. There are many distributed learning programs in BC, both for public education and independent education. I can see advantages as well as disadvantages to distributed learning, but overall I think it is a great option to have in BC. Some advantages of distributed learning include: 1) the ability to study while travelling, working, or otherwise unable to be available for set class times, 2) the vast bank of schools and instructors to choose from, 3) the flexible pacing and scheduling, and 4) the cost effectiveness. However, I can also imagine a few disadvantages to the structure of distributed learning, including: 1) the potential for a lack of motivation, 2) the deficiency of social learning, 3) the lack of certain courses, and 4) the availability of the Internet. Overall, I believe that distributed learning is a very useful option to have for the learners who will benefit from this style of education.

In my various courses at UVic this semester, I have learned many pieces of information on assessment and how to make it valuable for students, parents, teacher, and administrators. First of all, it has been emphasized in the Psychology of Classroom Learning course that assessment and feedback are best to be frequent, immediate, and specific. As a student, it is highly valuable to receive feedback that can actually guide towards improvement of learning. For this to be the case, teachers must focus on specificity in their delivery of assessment. In addition, we have learned a lot about the importance of both formative and summative assessment styles. Formative assessment consists of assessing during the process of learning. This can be done through the Think-Pair-Share method, through homework and in-class questions, or through summaries/reflections of the lesson by the students. Summative assessment consists of assessing students’ knowledge at the end of a unit and comparing this to some sort of standard. This can be done in the form of tests, quizzes, projects, presentations, etc. It has been emphasized in my coursework this semester that formative assessment is very important for student success. This is because formative assessment allows the teacher to get a grasp of where the students are at, and adjust their pacing or teaching style to suit the students’ needs