Reflection of Graphic Organizer

Within the area of technology there are tools that are very beneficial. These tools fall under the categories of content, communication, and collaboration. Distance Education requires collaboration and communication via technology.
In the area of content the learner and the instructor focus on the following: textbooks, professional journals, library resources, media streaming, wikis, learning communities, Internet, and search engines. All of these tools are used to increase the knowledge or content of the subject area. Professional journals are very helpful when trying to gather research regarding a topic. I have found that the media streams and downloads are full of information on the content being presented. Wikis are a way that students and instructors can share ideas and reflect upon the content being presented.
Collaboration has a large impact on the Distance Education enviroment. The learner must collaborate with peers and the instructor to gain knowledge of the presented content. It amazes me how many point of views that exist for a subject. Learning communities is the best way to stay in continous contact with your peers. The learning communities offers a place of safety for the students. The learning communities come together to reach a goal. The members offer assistance and criticism to further the learning of the community. Through threaded discussions the learner has the opportunity to interact with their peers and the instructor regarding the content. The varying points of view really leads the learner to think and analyze the content even more.
Communication is another important area. Communication within the Distance Education environment came be achieved by e-mail, texting, instant messaging, chats, and blogs. I have found Skype to be a very successful tool when communicating with my peers. This is accomplished by voice calls or messaging. Both works well. Facebook is another way that students may communicate. The ways in which you communicate is not what is important. What is important is that you communicate with your peers and the instructor to gain all the knowledge available. All of the three C's are important and work together so that the learner will be successful at achieving their goals!