Distance Education (1728 - present) - Web 1.0
Utilizes a
course-centered approach to teaching in which subject matter is prescribed to
the student. Distance education had a major boost with the advent of television and videotape technologies. Currently the delivery of content is very often via websites, readings and
viewings of video-based materials and lessons. Exchanges between teachers and
students are often via mail, e-mail, and phone conversations. Communication and
learning are primarily unidirectional, from the instructor. This is still in use today.
Online Education (~2003 - present) - Web 2.0
Learning is produced
through student-centered methods of education. Websites and learning management
systems along with web-based meeting applications are frequently implemented.
Interactions between teachers and students are most frequently via e-mail and learning management systems (such as Moodle and Blackboard). Communication and learning are typically
bi-directional between the teacher and student, with some interaction between
students. This method is currently being used.
A Virtual Reality Education (~2009 - present) - Web 3.0
Embraces a community and context-centered philosophy through which there is the observation, discovery and synthesis of knowledge and skills via participation and shared learning. In addition to e-mail and learning management systems, participation and learning occur online via social learning and social networking tools (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram), collaboration tools (such as Wikipedia) and virtual environments (Second Life), thus incorporating the benefits of engagement, interactivity, and virtual presence. Communication and learning are multi-directional, with the majority of this occurring among students. The needs for personal flexibility and mobility are addressed.
