A Personal Reflection on Distance Learning
Distance learning has changed how we approach education, whether K-12, homeschooling, higher education, or work training development. Distance learning can be defined as "institution-based, formal education where interactive telecommunications systems are used to connect learners, resources, and instructors" (Simonson et al., 2012, p.32). Terms that are often associated with distance learning are e-learning, virtual education, and online learning. For instance, e-learning is typically associated with distance education in the private sector, while online learning is more common in higher education settings. Lastly, virtual education is frequently used to refer to distance education in K-12 education (Simonson et al., 2012). My experience with distance learning comes from both a student and instructor perspective. As a student, I had heard the term "online learning" before I began, and as I am working through my online program for my Masters’s degree in instruction...