Interactive Activity Communications That Support Course Implementation and Instructional Engagement: Creating Digital Spaces in Distance Education

Abstract

Three participants come together in a multiple case study approach, to analyze learner-focused and instructor-focused interactive activities within distance learning environments. Instructors and learners are considered from an instructor perspective, reflecting upon specific experiences, implementing and facilitation communication dynamics in distance education courses, from a learner experience and an instructional facilitator experience. Equally impactful is the consideration towards the extent that distance education has changed during the participant's careers as embedded in the higher education field. Additionally, consideration towards generative artificial intelligence, large language models as considerations towards machine learning, and simulations, are considered as current and future considerations within distance education course implementation and instructional facilitation efforts. Emphasized are significant gaps in practice and gaps in the literature.