Two weeks after the start of the e-Instructor Certification Programme, our participants completed Subject 01 – Introduction to Advanced Distributed Learning. These two meetings allowed refine attendees their knowledge about advanced distributed learning (ADL) and return to the fundamentals of distance learning – comment on key terms and definitions. This thematical block was an opportunity to lay the foundations for the following, more advanced topics in the next weeks.
The tutors were two SMEs representing NATO DEEP eAcademy: Magdalena Stabla (Instructional Designer) and Marcin Jóźwiak (Deputy Director for Academic Affairs).
During The #4 Edition of the e-Instructor Certification Programme, we introduce you to ‘Questions and Answers with NATO DEEP eAcademy’s experts’.
We will start by delving into topics related to the experience of our experts Magdalena Stabla (Instructional Designer) and Marcin Jóźwiak in the field of distance learning.
Question 1
What do you consider to be the biggest challenges in designing and delivering advanced distributed learning, and how do you address them?
The process of designing and delivering ADL comes with a range of challenges. For the purpose of this interview, let’s focus on the following ones:
(1) Technology – currently there are many tools and technological solutions to choose from. As educators, we need to find the right balance – it’s easy to just overwhelm learners with too much new technology / software used. The solutions that we use need to be reliable and easy to use.
(2) Methodology – online programmes need special attention to methodology and methods used. We’re always striving for creating the best learning experiences, so what counts for us is active participation and creating tools that support learners while they use the theory in practice.
Question 2
What are some examples of tools or innovative technologies that you have used to enhance online learning, and what impact have they had?
Currently, we are using many tools that help us engage participants and enhance online learning experience.
The crucial ones are of course – the LMS that we use (and love): ILIAS for the asynchronous content delivery, and video-conferencing system: BigBlueButton: for the synchronous learning.
When selecting tools and technologies for online learning, it is important for us to consider the needs and preferences of the learners and the learning objectives. It is also important to evaluate the impact of these tools and technologies for the e-learning outcome. Sometimes the easiest solutions are the best.
Also, please keep in mind what’s going on right now – there are quite many tools with the -AI suffix in the name. There’s a whole lot of research being done in the DEEP eAcademy as we speak!
Question 3
What do you consider to be the key benefits of advanced distributed learning, and how do you communicate those benefits to learners/stakeholders?
We think that the best answer to this question is simply flexibility. Nothing gives us so many opportunities regarding studying like e-learning! We can learn at our own pace, time and place. All we need is a stable internet connection!
Learners can see on their own when it comes to the asynchronous type of learning that they have much more possibilities considering their busy schedules – we encourage them to learn at their own convenience with possibility to ask direct questions during synchronous meetings.
Currently, NATO DEEP spans from Colombia to Mongolia, which also is demanding in terms of flexibility. We frequently have participants / SMEs joining our events in the middle of the night.
We’re doing our best to communicate the advantages (and disadvantages) of ADL to our participants during the e-Instructor Certification Programme. Actually, this is one of the main topics of our first meeting with them. It’s as important to use the full potential of the ADL, as to know what are the barriers and possible obstacles (and knowing our way around them!).
Question 4
How do you design and deliver online instruction that is engaging, and effective?
There’s no simple answer to that question. But there’s a set of points that we are always keep in mind while designing our classes / workshops
- We have different types of e-learners, which means that we need to find the right balance in terms of teaching methods and technology used. It makes no sense to overwhelm them with technology, as we are not teaching an information technology class – people have different backgrounds and English level.
- Using prior experience of participants – well, let’s just say that some of our participants are in the teaching “business” for decades. That makes the discussions really interesting and challenging. We are always trying to find time for discussion, even if it means staying for a bit after the workshops are finished.
Question 5
What strategies do you use to promote interaction and collaboration among participants in an online environment, and how do you ensure that all learners have equal opportunities to participate?
Since this is the first subject for our participants, we are doing everything so they can feel comfortable and welcome in our programme.
Something that has proved to be particularly useful are the breakout rooms. They provide a platform for fruitful discussion, and allow participants to actually talk to each other not in the main auditorium. Also, what worked out for us pretty well is giving options – students have the possibility to complete some written assignments in their own language, not only in English.
We really care about a friendly environment in the classroom and encourage students to speak up – it is open space for ideas and creativity.