Educators like to discuss subtle differences: "Distributed Learning is an instructional model that allows instructor, students, and content to be located in different, non-centralized locations so that instruction and learning occur independent of time and place. The Distributed Learning Model can be used in combination with traditional classroom-based courses, with traditional distance learning courses, or can be used to create wholly virtual classrooms." From "Distributed Learning via the WWW" by Steven Saltzberg and Susan Polyson (1995) (no longer available online)
The delivery of standardized training, education or professional development using multiple media and technologies when and where it is needed. It may involve learner-instructor interaction in both real time (synchronous) and non-real time (asynchronous). It may involve self-paced asynchronous learner instruction without benefit of access to an instructor. It does not necessarily involve a physical distance between the learner and instructor or need occur outside the confines of the resident training establishment or campus. The dispatch of instructors from a training establishment to a unit or another location to conduct training, or the hiring of qualified instructors in other locations to conduct the training on behalf of a training establishment fall within the realm of Distributed Learning.
(n.) A student-centered approach to learning that incorporates the use of technology in the learning process and, according to Chris Dede, emphasizes four educational characteristics: 1. supports different learning styles by using mixed media; 2. builds on the learner's perspective through interactive educational experiences; 3. builds learning skills and social skills through collaboration among learners and with the community; 4. integrates the learning into daily life by doing authentic tasks.
using a wide range of information technologies to provide learning opportunities beyond the bounds of the traditional classroom, including the World Wide Web, email, video conferencing, groupware, simulations, newsgroups, distribution lists, chat rooms and instructional software. A distributed learning environment facilitates a learner-centered educational paradigm and promotes active learning.
any educational activity that does not require regular physical attendance.
Students take courses from a variety of sources (and delivery modes) to customize a program of study. Often is used synonymously with online learning.
a term that emphasises learning rather than the technology used or the separation between teacher and learner; distributed learning makes learning possible beyond the classroom and, when combined with classroom modes, becomes flexible learning.
Distributed learning is a model in which the instructor, students and content can all be located in different, noncentralised locations, so learning can occur independent of place and time.
(voir Apprentissage distribué) Learning by means of a distributed learning technology.
A method of instruction that relies primarily on indirect communication between students and teachers, including internet or other electronic-based delivery, teleconferencing, or correspondence.
A system and process that uses a variety of technologies, learning methodologies, on-line collaboration, and instructor facilitation to achieve applied learning results not possible from traditional education in a truly flexible, anytime/anywhere fashion.
The provision of a learning context by projecting the environment to the student, usually via Information Technology. The student may be on or off campus. Education: At a personal level, this is the totality of the process within which the student's experiences are structured in order to promote desired learning. Often used to denote the social infrastructure (higher, secondary etc.), and its institutions, which have responsibility for this provision.
see ‘Off-campus distributed learning’.
Distance learning that makes use of information technology. Includes most types of distance learning but not plain correspondence.
Often used synonymously with Distance Learning; distinct in that it is the outcome of education that combines a blend of online and traditional delivery methods.
A student-centered approach to learning that incorporates the use of technology in the learning process. Deals with complex topics and decision-making by professionals.
