There are so many options out there for open and online environments. One blogger posted “The Internet is a virtual classroom. You can read about any topic you desire. You can take online tests and quizzes to track your progress. You can access free worksheets and lesson plans” (Robbins, 2009). As discussed in EDUC 8823 course study notes (“Open and Online Learning Environments”, 2009), “Open and online learning environments . . . cover a wide variety of technologies and strategies for learning. The ideal open learning environment is a truly constructivist environment in which the learners interact with the tools to research, learn, solve problems and create new knowledge.” The blog reflect how the Internet can serve as this learning environment. Learners can learn a vast amount of information. The blog provides examples of various virtual classroom resources that can be accessed with through the Internet. These sources include online reference resources, online activities, and online tutors. Robbins (2009) stated, “The Internet provides a virtual classroom that you can access from your own home, school, or library. The virtual classroom never sleeps, so you can find an answer to your question any time day or night. The Internet classroom is waiting. Are you ready to be its student?” (ΒΆ 7). Check out this blog in its entirety at http://internetwebsitemarketing01.wordpress.com/
References:
Open and online learning environments. (2009). [Study Notes]. Retrieved March 30, 2009, from http://sylvan.live.ecollege.com/ec/crs/default.learn?CourseID=3350983&Survey=1&47=3792931&ClientNodeID=984645&coursenav=1&bhcp=1
Robbins, K. (2009). The internet provides a virtual classroom. Retrieved April 3, 2009, from http://internetwebsitemarketing01.wordpress.com/
April 4, 2009 at 12:14 am |
Honestly, I had never thought of the Internet in those terms before. However, it makes sense in that people can choose a path, explore, and construct new knowledge. All that is missing is structure. Without it, those intrinsically motivated and driven will succeed and those who are not as dedicated will flounder, which is why I believe that open learning environments can be helpful to many. they organize and structure the information and the path to it making it more accessible to all.
April 5, 2009 at 8:49 pm |
I tried to view the blog you referred to. Unfortunately, access to the blog you viewed ‘has been archived or suspended for a violation of our Terms of Service’.
I can agree that the Internet is a virtual classroom in itself. An advantage is that it can be accessed anytime. There is so much information that content must be filtered because all information is not appropriate for all ages.
April 6, 2009 at 2:22 am |
Hi Tracee. I do not know why the site is showing up as blocked or archived. It was an interesting blog. Because of all the actually educational sites, it can teach to others. We have to filter of course just like when we teach from a book. We pick and chose what is best for our students. The fact that it is available all the time makes it an accessible tool that is convenient to learners without restrictions. I see we are on the same page as far as how we feel about the Internet as a virtual classroom.
Jolandra
April 28, 2009 at 10:23 pm |
Hi, Jolandra,
I, like Jason, had never thought of the Internet as an online classroom, open and available 24/7, but it truly is. There is a wealth of information available to anyone, anywhere, anytime. My only concern about the information available is that some of it is not always the best quality; and the undiscerning may not be able to differentiate. In this information age, we all truly need information literacy skills now more than ever.