Final Reflection-Online Learning Challenges

Final Reflection on Online Learning Challenges

Taking the course on Learning Theories and Instruction has opened my eyes on several aspects of understanding the learning process of me as student of Instructional Design and other learners along with to the importance of motivation as part of the learning process. Beginning with myself, I have been able to identify that my learning process is social constructivism learning.

Social learning theorists have described this method in which learning occurs within in a social context and the learner is intrinsically motivated to discover and obtain new knowledge to (Ormrod, 2008). I am on a continuous quest to seek out new information whether be workshops, seminars, webinars, or social networking media. My desire to learn helps me to be a motivator to encourage and motivate others to first understand what they desire and to seek out the best method of obtaining what they seek after.

As for online learning motivation, I believe the best of the best of Instructional Designers can test, survey, compile data to create what is perceived as the best online learning venue program but cannot create a motivation program that will convince and motivate learners to online learning is going to be a learning venue that is going to supersede classroom learning.

The best of the best of instructors who develop what is perceived as a prime curriculum lesson plan go along with the Instructional Designer’s online course program will still not convince or motivate learners to receive online learning to be as equivalently effective learning venue compared to attending a traditional classroom environment until educators can identify first what motivates learners to learn then what will motivate learners to want to learn online.

Surprisingly online learning is still a concept hard to swallow for individuals who are accustomed or desire interaction. Perhaps with all the negativity surrounding online learning, I believe that individuals who favor’s interaction in the classroom can still face challenges of motivation for learning for the same reason given for lack of interest for online learning such as courses shows no value to career goals, lack of time management, more assignments than expected, lack of instructor or counseling support, and personal obligations.

I still search for what are the real concerns for online learning programs? I often think if the same degree classes offered at a traditional school was offered at a reduce cost online,  or more emplorer endorsements for online learning as a form of employee tuition discount incentives, would the attitude of online learning change and foster more learners to become motivated to this type of learning venue? Time will tell.

Ormrod, J. E. (2008). Learning theories and instruction. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Laureate Education, Inc.