When looking at distance learning and our educational systems today one must start at the beginning. In the article by Farhad Saba, he started discussing these early years. Though informal apprenticeship programs to discussion forums, education was spread throughout the world in various ways. Farhad Saba continues to discuss how distance education has influenced our society. One more modern example of distance learning he discussed is radio. Farhad Saba stated "listening to radio is less effective than face-to-face communication due to lack of the speaker’s “facial expressions and gestures.”
How effective are facial expressions? Do we lose the passion and expression when learning through ways other than face to face interaction? I think the interaction is an important part in education but not the sole fuel. For example, many school systems teach with the mindset of connecting with our students. If a connection is shared with the content as well as with their peers and the teacher, the more enhanced the level of learning. I also believe it depends on the generation. Modern students have a much easier time connecting to the content and their peers without a face to face interaction. In contrast, I value the face to face interactions but believe it can be enhance through exploration and distance learning. My parents on the other hand see education as a paper, pencil and a desk full of eager students facing a chalkboard.
In conclusion, Farhad Saba discussed many points about distance learning. From the beginning to now, learning can take place anywhere. Technology allows us to "sit in a classroom" while in our pajama's in the comfort of our own home. One statement that stuck out to me was when Farhad Saba discussed the benefits of distance learning in comparison to face to face interaction. He stated, "despite the rapid growth of distance education in recent years, and overwhelming research evidence that there is no “statistically significant difference” between the effectiveness of distance and face-to-face instruction, the issue of quality of distance education has remained alive." Being a part of online program, I was relieved to read this statement. I too believe no matter if someone is educated through a vast distance or even face to face, the quality of the education remains intact.
I remember my first online class, the teacher had to constantly stress the importance of tone in writing given the absence of face to face cues. Today, it is hardly mentioned because we are much more in tune with this type of learning. So I concur!
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