The Future of Education

Awareness of trends in online learning as well as the benefits and challenges include examination of current education research, principles of online course design, active engagement techniques and methods of online student evaluation, which are essential in e-learning. Current research in education and experience with online course delivery that requires knowledge and skill to be translated to working directly in healthcare will be presented. The presentation will examine the benefits and challenges of online learning and delivery of content using active engagement and purposeful learning opportunities. Design of online courses must include asynchronous and synchronous content facilitated for students so participation is accessible regardless of geographic area. The process of learning how to deliver online courses that are engaging and interactive with a focus on applied skills has allowed the presenter to increase their knowledge base in online delivery formats to meet a variety of student needs. Online course delivery has added instructional techniques to instructors repertoire that include the creative use of technology to promote interactive material. Technology utilized enables learners to actively engage with the course content in their own way. Dialogue occurs through the presentation of assignments or evidence based research projects through online technology. The presenter has observed an increased level of participation due to the nature of online interactions. Students who may be more reserved in class often participate more in the online format. An increased number of international learners in the online program and the rich cultural context they bring to the discussions and live sessions. Active participation is graded and evaluated at a higher standard due to the level of thought and research required in asynchronous and synchronous discussions. The learner has the time to demonstrate their skills in a variety of cognitive learning areas while also being evaluated across cognitive domains (discussion boards, live chat, quizzes, assignments, essays and reflections). 

Keywords: e-learning, adult education, competence development, masters education, online education;

References:
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