Spotlight on Online Learning

Modern education has been changing in the last decade, and at the forefront of that change has been the ability for students to connect with teachers and learn from anywhere in the world via online learning. With all the changes, both positive and potentially challenging that online learning can bring, we talked to Michael P. Alfano, dean of the Isabelle Farrington College of Education at Sacred Heart University about online learning and the way it is being used in K-12 education.

Q. What are some of the most important things faculty and online education administrators need to consider when choosing an online learning tool, especially for K-12 students who might learn in different ways?

A. From an instructional design perspective, great attention has to be paid to the “fit” between what is being taught online versus the skillset and background of the learner.  If an instructional technology is misaligned to what kids know and are able to do, it is doomed to fail.  Conversely, if there is thoughtful alignment, instructional technology can be an amazing tool to facilitate and extend learning outcomes.

Q. What are some ways to increase student engagement when teaching in an online format?

A. As is the case for any instructional arrangement, the best way to engage students is to take the time and effort to get to know them.  What are their backgrounds, interests, skill sets, and opportunities for growth?  This information can be used to create “fun” multi-media opportunities, which are thoughtfully and proactively aligned, to get kids to actively take ownership over their own learning.

Q. Are there any advancements on the horizon that you expect to change the way online learning is currently carried out?

A.  Instructional technologies are changing so rapidly and in such incredible ways it’s hard to give a precise answer, as what I know is likely already out of date.  In general, I think there is real opportunity to link online learning opportunities to real world applications that encourage critical thinking and problem-solving skills of students.  Those skills are what colleges and employers are looking for in applicants. 

Q. What are a few disadvantages of online learning versus classroom learning, and what are some ways to mitigate those? 

A. For me, the biggest disadvantage is that online learning cannot replicate face-to-face social-skill development that is so important to real-world personal and professional interactions.  This can be mitigated by using platforms like Skype, to an extent, but not completely.

Featured

  • University of Kentucky Sees Positive Results from Energy Efficiency Program

    The University of Kentucky in Lexington, Ky., recently announced the results of its Energy Program in Facilities Management, put into place eight years ago, according to a news release. Between the fiscal years of 2017 and 2025, the university’s campus grew by 13.6% while the energy use per square foot dropped by 19.2%.

  • University of Kansas Opens $400M Football Stadium Reconstruction

    The University of Kansas in Lawrence, Kan., recently announced that the $400-million reconstruction of David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium is complete in time for the 2025 football season, according to a news release. The university partnered with Turner Construction Company on the project.

  • Inglewood Unified School District Breaks Ground on New High School

    The Inglewood Unified School District in Inglewood, Calif., recently broke ground on a new campus for Inglewood High School, according to a news release. The project has a budget of about $240 million, funding coming through bond proceeds from Measure I.

  • California School District Starts Construction on Public Safety Center

    The San Bernardino City Unified School District (SBCUSD) recently announced that construction has begun on a new public safety center that will house the district’s safety and security programs. According to a news release, the James Ramos Center for Public Safety will measure in at 17,140 square feet and contain the district’s Police Department, Office of Emergency Management, and cadet program.

Digital Edition