Teaching and Learning
Distance Education




The Internet is impacting education in a way that no other societal change or technology has before, creating virtual learning spaces within or outside of traditional learning spaces

What is Distance Education ?

Distance education or online learning is an Internet based learning environment in which a teacher and student(s) are separated by physical distance and possibly time but connected through technology such as voice, video, data, and print. Communication among participants may be synchronous (real time chats or video) or asynchronous (email, threaded discussions).

The Changing Landscape of Education

Perhaps for the first time in many decades, the educational landscape is making its greatest transformation as online education via Internet-based technology provides an opportunity to access learning without restrictions to location, space or time. Whether a online course, a unit of study or opportunities to collaboratively discuss and solve problems among interested learners, the Internet is impacting education in a way that no other societal change or technology has before, creating virtual learning spaces within or outside of traditional learning spaces. In our changing world where life long learning is more necessary and valued than ever before, online education provides the access, flexibility and personalized learning for a global community.





By working collaboratively throughout our province to support distance education, we can help to meet the needs of more students.

Changing Roles, Responsibilities and Opportunities

In many smaller high schools, especially in rural areas, there is limited demand, lack of financial resources or instructional personnel to offer specialized courses. By working collaboratively throughout our province to support distance education, we can help to meet the needs of more students.

Students - Studies indicate that independent, intrinsically motivated learners will benefit most from this format. Without the daily face-to-face contact with teachers, students must be self regulating and able to plan effectively for their learning. Sask Learning's Central iSchool Site prepares students with background information about online learning. One reminder, "Online courses will NOT save you time or effort! " encourages students to develop correct perceptions about this learning format.

Staff - In a high school setting, staff members may be involved in designing or delivering online courses. Another opportunity for teachers is the access to a wealth of web based learning resources created by Saskatchewan teachers working with Sask Learning. These resources may be used by classroom teachers as they exist, may be adapted or modified to suit the needs of the teacher and his/her students, or may be used as resource materials to supplement ongoing instruction.

Facilitators - Students enrolled in online classes will benefit from the assistance of a teacher at the home school to ensure that details required for the success of the program are met. These individuals assist with registration, materials, scheduling, technical support, supervision of exams and provide ongoing contact with the student(s) to ensure that success will be met. This facilitator must be aware of and be able to support the instructor’s goals and expectations.

Administrators - With students enrolled in online courses, the administrator is ultimately responsible for the instructional needs of the students. If teachers within the school are involved in online course delivery, the administrator has a key role ensuring the technological resources and personnel reflect the school division’s mission.
 
Online Learning for Administrators
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