Abstract
The aim of this chapter is to examine and assess distance education, purpose and requirements of distance education, basic principles in the effective use of distance education, the role of teacher and student in distance education, material in distance education, and measurement and evaluation in distance education. It also aims at determining learning theories in distance education technology such as behavioral learning theory, cognitive learning theory, constructivist learning theory, adult education theory, theory of independent study, autonomy theory, theory of industrialization of teaching, connectivism learning theory, and interaction and communication theory. In the last part of the chapter, technology-supported education methods such as interactive video, teleconferencing systems, cloud technology, virtual reality, and web-based (online) training were explained in detail.
TopIntroduction
Although distance education remains current as a new phenomenon, it dates back to a very long history, almost three centuries ago. Distance education has been tried in different ways at different times. The reasons such as the inability to bring education to all parts of the country or regions, and the disadvantages of time and space can be cited for this situation. As for the definition of distance education, there are several widely accepted definitions of distance education. For example, according to Keegan (1986), distance education is a learning process where learners and teachers are not usually in the same place, under an institutional structure, electronic environments and technologies are used to establish two-way communication, and mostly individual learning takes place. On the other hand, UNESCO (2002) defined distance learning as approaches that focus on opening (facilitating) access to education and training opportunities, freeing learners from the limitations of time and space, and providing individuals with flexible learning opportunities. The most widely accepted definition in recent years is that learners are separate from each other; learners, resources and teachers connect with interactive telecommunication technologies and that it is institution-based, structured (formal) education (Simonson, Smaldino, Albright, & Zvacek, 2006).
Purpose and Requirements of Distance Education
The most basic purpose of distance education is to get rid of the time and space limitations in the education-teaching process. Education is a process. Distance education, on the other hand, has taken an active role in not interrupting this process. Distance education is used not only in the educational process but also in meetings, symposiums, conferences and seminars.
With the development of technology day by day, the distance education process is also being restructured. As a result of this change and development, distance education has become a necessity with the globalization of the world. Distance education requirements can be listed as follows (Altun & Ateş, 2008; Anderson, 2003; Benson, & Samarawickrema, 2009; Demirel, 2010; İşman, 2011; Uşun, 2006):
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Every individual has the right to education
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Time and place constitutes an obstacle in the education process in some cases
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The differentiation of the demands of the society with the increase in the use of technology
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Elimination of financial expenses such as transportation and accommodation
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Providing access to larger audiences at the same time
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It can be used at every stage of education in different disciplines
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Being able to access/repeat the source/message repeatedly with offline education
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Distance education has become a necessity thanks to its benefits such as enabling individuals to act more independently in the learning process.
Key Terms in this Chapter
Distance Learning Theories: They are the theories that show how to carry out distance education, how to teach and learn in distance education.
Web-Based Instruction: It is an instruction system in which teachers and learners can operate together independently of time, place, and distance.
Distance Education: It is a form of education based on the use of various communication tools without being face-to-face between the student and the teacher.
Teaching Principles and Methods in Distance Education: Principles regarding the establishment of educational activities within the framework of a specific plan and program.
Technology-Supported Education Methods: The methods benefited from the use of technology in the field of education.