Instructional Technology Conference 2008

Title: Attention—A Technological Revolution: Social Implications of E-Learning

Name: Dr. Karen J. Thoms

Audience Level: all

Audience: faculty, instructional technology specialists

Length: 1 hour

Abstract:
There is currently a technological revolution in higher education: E-learning is its name. The growth of e-learning is explosive, it's unprecedented, it's exciting, it's disruptive, it's . . . . We must understand the complexities of e-learning—advantages, disadvantages, examples, and promises—in order to identify and address the many social implications. Join us to discuss this technological revolution as we strive for our end goal: quality education for students.

Description:
Quality education for students. This is not a new idea, this is not something someone just dreamed up. This is a reality, and it's becoming more complex by the day. There is currently a technological revolution in higher education: E-learning is its name. The growth of e-learning is explosive, it's unprecedented, it's exciting, it's disruptive, it's . . .. We must understand the complexities of e-learning—advantages, disadvantages, examples, and promises—in order to identify and address the many social implications.

The strategic direction of our institutions of higher education is being influenced by a range of conditions, one of which is the advent (read that as demand) of online learning (read that as e-learning). Flexibility is a huge selling feature. Availability is a huge selling feature. Competition is a huge selling feature. Accessibility is a huge selling feature. And the list goes on. As more institutions are offering online courses, they are finding themselves having to address factors such as teaching strategies, technology demands, and social implications associated with e-learning.

We must understand e-learning as a whole, including social implications, to be best prepared to meet the needs of our institution, our faculty, and our students. For an interesting read, E-Learning in the 21st Century by Garrison and Anderson provides some very thoughtful, useful information. Other articles are available which address these social implications and cautions. This presentation will summarize some of the points found in the literature, advantages and disadvantages of social implications of e-learning, some examples of successful and not-so-successful e-learning experiences, and some projections for the future.

Advantages of e-learning

There are a number of advantages of e-learning. First, we are using state-of-the-art technology and instructional strategies; or at least we should be. Cultures can be shared through e-learning, if participants wish to share cultures. Disabilities can be accommodated, with or without the knowledge of other participants. Gender may not be an issue, because in many situations, gender is unknown—or it can be. Because of global access, the classroom may be the world. So many more advantages, so little time to discuss them all.

Disadvantages of e-learning

Just as a glass may be half full, it may also be half empty. Which means, there are also disadvantages to e-learning. Class members with disabilities may be functioning at a disadvantage for a number of reasons. Some participants may be technologically challenged and are hesitant to participate in full. Online discussions may inhibit class members, they may encourage banter. Some students experience computer or technology anxiety, which may in turn impact their learning and their final grades.

Examples of Social Implications of E-Learning

During this session, the presenter will share some examples of some of the social implications which may be present in an e-learning environment.

Trends and Possible Solutions

The presenter will also share possible solutions to some of the problems and issues. Opportunity will be provided for conference participants to share experiences and solutions.

Session Type: Lecture/Presentation

Contact information/affiliation:
Dr. Karen J. Thoms, Professor
InforMedia Services AND Center for Information Media
St. Cloud State University
Miller Center 204-I
720 Fourth Avenue South
St. Cloud, MN 56301-4498
Phone: (320) 308-2110
Fax: (320) 308-4778
e-mail: kthoms@stcloudstate.edu

Equipment: computer and data projection unit

---

Return to Proposals