Learning on the Web

Jason Huett, Leslie Moller, Wellesley R. Foshay, and Craig Coleman have valid arguments when discussing web based learning. In their article, Implications for instructional design on the potential of the web, they list factors that contribute negatively when students engage in on line learning. Regardless of how on line learning is being used there are issues that need to be corrected in order for students to receive meaningful education or training. Assessments in courses are usually simplified and have no real measure of course success. "Evaluation of any kind beyond the "smilesheet" is not planned, and, often, there is no provision for the measurement of learning outcomes or utilization" (Moller, L.,  et al.,2008,v 52, p70). Instructors and facilitators for courses are not experienced and lack adequate training. "In terms of instructional design, teachers ( fi they are trained at all in ID theory and practice) are trained to design instruction for the traditional classroom" (Juett, J., et al., 2008, v 52, p 63). Besides the lack of training and assessments aligned with learning outcomes on line learning is very different from face to face traditional classrooms. There is the fear that students will become socially isolated from the instructor and other students in the learning community.
     The research is mixed as to what type of interaction distance learners prefer or should be expected   
     to  engage in. It seems plausible that, given the lack of collaborative learning background of many  
     learners, our educational system if producing learners who prefer, or are able only to interact with the
     content and/or the instructor, but not each other (Moller, L., 2008, v 52, p 74).
Along with the above three issues there is also economic contributors. These authors have valid arguments. I have been reading articles on Social Presence with online learning communities and some of the very same negative contributors have been discussed. I myself am a student enrolled in online courses. Although I agree that issues can arise with online learning communities I have been very fortunate to have well trained instructors who offer me a wide variety of technological media, the opportunity to engage in meaningful discussion, and assessments that align with the learning outcomes of the course. There is the chance that a student can become isolated which would potentially lead to trouble with the course but I believe that as with face to face traditional classrooms a student will get out of their education what they put into it.

Referneces
Moller, L., Foshay, W.R., Huett, J. (2008). The evolution of distance education: implications for instructional
     design on the potential of the web. TechTrends,52, 70-75.
Moller, L., Foshay, W. R., Huett, J. (2008). The evloution of distance education: implications for
     instructional design on the potential of the web. TechTrends, 52, 66-70.
Huett, J., Moller, L., Foshay, W. R., & Coleman, C. (2008). The evolution of distance education:
     implications for instructional design on the potential of the web. TechTrends, 52, 63-67.