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Module 1 Unit 1

The document discusses the foundations for studying theory in distance education. It defines distance education and notes there are several common names for the field like distance learning. While different terms are used, there is no single agreed upon theoretical framework. The document examines some prominent theorists in distance education and discusses how theory can explain observations, predict behavior, and be modified over time. Finally, it outlines inductive and deductive processes in developing theories and types of theories like descriptive, explanatory and predictive theories.

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110 views

Module 1 Unit 1

The document discusses the foundations for studying theory in distance education. It defines distance education and notes there are several common names for the field like distance learning. While different terms are used, there is no single agreed upon theoretical framework. The document examines some prominent theorists in distance education and discusses how theory can explain observations, predict behavior, and be modified over time. Finally, it outlines inductive and deductive processes in developing theories and types of theories like descriptive, explanatory and predictive theories.

Uploaded by

AJE
Copyright
© Attribution Non-Commercial (BY-NC)
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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LAYING THE FOUNDATIONS FOR THE STUDY OF THEORY

Module 1 Unit 1

EDAE6056 University of the West Indies Open Campus Avanelle Joseph-Edwards

What is Distance Education

institution-based formal education where the learning group is separated, and where interactive telecommunications systems are used to connect learners, resources, and instructors (Simonson, Smaldino,Albright and Zvacek, 2009)

EDAE6056 University of the West Indies Open Campus Avanelle Joseph-Edwards

Common names of the field


Distance Education Distance Learning Distance Teaching Open Learning Online Learning e-Learning

EDAE6056 University of the West Indies Open Campus Avanelle Joseph-Edwards

Several names, one theory?


While there many terms used for distance education, there is no one theoretical framework to base the field upon. This is due to the fact that theorists have varying perspectives on the field.

EDAE6056 University of the West Indies Open Campus Avanelle Joseph-Edwards

Conceptual Synergies of prominent theorists in DE


Keegan, Peters, Garrison, Anderson Holmberg, Wedemeyer, Moore Focus on organization of field And organization of field Focus on learner And his interaction with others
EDAE6056 University of the West Indies Open Campus Avanelle Joseph-Edwards

While the field of distance education continues to evolve in its innovation in technology, it has maintained its original character of both presenting learning matter and catering for interaction by the use of media. (Holmberg, 2005)

EDAE6056 University of the West Indies Open Campus Avanelle Joseph-Edwards

What is Theory?
a systematic ordering of ideas about the phenomenon of our field of inquiry overarching logical structure of reasoned suppositions which can generate intersubjectively testable hypothesis (Holmberg) a set of principles on which the practice of an activity is based (Oxford American Dictionary)

EDAE6056 University of the West Indies Open Campus Avanelle Joseph-Edwards

What is Theory?
provides

a general explanation for observations made over time, Explains and predicts behavior Can never be established beyond all doubt May be modified (Dorin, Demmin & Gabel, 1990)

EDAE6056 University of the West Indies Open Campus Avanelle Joseph-Edwards

Value of Theory
Explains what we observe and the relationship between concepts. Helps to understand things we dont know or cant explain. It therefore enables change as it helps us to solve problems. Theory guides research. It enhances the growth of a field of study. As the knowledge grows so does the research in that area.

EDAE6056 University of the West Indies Open Campus Avanelle Joseph-Edwards

theory helps a researcher see the forest instead of just a single tree. (Neuman WL 1997)
EDAE6056 University of the West Indies Open Campus Avanelle Joseph-Edwards

Functions of Theory

Integrate old facts" " Predict new facts" " Lead to understanding"

"

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EDAE6056 University of the West Indies Open Campus Avanelle Joseph-Edwards

Inductive and Deductive Processes


Theories

Inductive

Deductive

Facts from Observation

Explanation and Prediction

EDAE6056 University of the West Indies Open Campus Avanelle Joseph-Edwards

Deductive
Develop theory

Inductive
Observe phenomenon Analyze patterns and themes Formulate relationship

Develop hypothesis

Collect and analyze data Accept/ Reject hypothesis

Develop theory
EDAE6056 University of the West Indies Open Campus Avanelle Joseph-Edwards

Types of Theories
Descriptive theories Describe phenomena Explanatory theories Explain phenomena Predictive theories forecast outcomes

EDAE6056 University of the West Indies Open Campus Avanelle Joseph-Edwards

Theory versus Model


Models are subsets of theories. They are applications or representations of a given theory

EDAE6056 University of the West Indies Open Campus Avanelle Joseph-Edwards

For example, Dales Cone of Experience Model is based on Instructional Design and Learning Theories

EDAE6056 University of the West Indies Open Campus Avanelle Joseph-Edwards

THE END

EDAE6056 University of the West Indies Open Campus Avanelle JosephEdwards

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