Blogging for Constructive Learning and the Design of Online Environments

So, I"m reviving my blog again, this time for a course called "Constructive Learning and the Design of Online Environments."


One week has gone by, taking this course virtually, has opened my eyes to the exciting times and challenges of online learning environments.  Having worked on developing e-learning for the workplace, I was often in discussions with developers, writers, designers, and project managers on how to overcome the barriers faced by online learning participants/students.  Now, others are probably having those conversations about me.  My how the table has turned and i'm kinda liking it!


Having taken eight in person courses for my masters degree, it's fitting to round out this experience with a couple virtual masters courses.  Especially one that explores the theories and practices behind such an experience.


In our first week, we looked at Constructivism and Objectivism.  Which, I personally felt more in tune with the ideas of constructivism.  However, could certainly see how others on the flip side could work.


There is more than meets the eye, when it comes to creating material for an online learning environment.
And there are so many variables that come in to play.  For example, in my workplace, one of the audiences we designed for was quite remote, and there were varying internet speed connections from those who were using dial-up to those who were connected via satellite, and those who only were able to connect in public or community spaces vs connecting to learn at home.  Looking at technologies and what works better in these variables, was key.  Not to mention keeping in mind the nuances of that particular audience.  How did culture, geography and computer literacy impact the design as well.
This was part of the challenge, but also part of the excitement in coming up with a solution that would provide access to education that may not have been possible before!


In working as a volunteer for the Ontario Trillium Foundation, I had the fortune of coming across an exciting project that enabled education in remote area of Ontario for First Nations Students.  The project demonstrated that learners could be motivated to learn even when there are barriers in place that prevent the traditional face-to-face learning from taking place.


I'm looking forward to looking at these environments more closely in this class and understanding how some of the theory behind it impacts how variables play out.


Stay tuned.