MHE622 Foundations of Online Learning
Course Description
MHE 622 Foundations of Online Learning provides an understanding of critical concepts within the ever–changing field of online education. The online learning revolution has had a significant impact on the field of education in general. This course will focus on the changes that have occurred in higher education and will examine in–depth topics such as the history, principles, philosophies, and pedagogy of online learning. The application of various learning theories, including adult learning theory, and their relationship to online education will also be explored. Students will evaluate the need for online learning opportunities and analyze the challenges associated with implementing online learning programs within an educational institution. The course will include many opportunities for students to collaborate and share information with one another and to reflect upon their learning through the creation of a personal blog.
MHE 622 Foundations of Online Learning provides an understanding of critical concepts within the ever–changing field of online education. The online learning revolution has had a significant impact on the field of education in general. This course will focus on the changes that have occurred in higher education and will examine in–depth topics such as the history, principles, philosophies, and pedagogy of online learning. The application of various learning theories, including adult learning theory, and their relationship to online education will also be explored. Students will evaluate the need for online learning opportunities and analyze the challenges associated with implementing online learning programs within an educational institution. The course will include many opportunities for students to collaborate and share information with one another and to reflect upon their learning through the creation of a personal blog.
Student Learning Outcomes:
Course OutcomesAfter taking this course, students will be able to:
Course OutcomesAfter taking this course, students will be able to:
1. explain the history and evolution of the field of online education
2. compare face to face instruction to online instruction
3. explain the unique needs and challenges of the online student
4. analyze the challenges presented by the implementation and administration of online learningprograms within a higher education institution
5. evaluate various learning theories and their connection to online education
6. recognize the role of curriculum design and instructional technology in online education
7. evaluate the effectiveness of various models of online education
8. demonstrate an understanding of principles, philosophies and pedagogy of online learning
9. explain the term “disruptive technology” and the ways in which online education is a disruptive force in the field of education
10. assess the value of online education in a higher education setting
11. examine current trends in the field and evaluate the impact these trends may have on the future of online education
Required Texts:
1. Simonson, M., Smaldino, S., Albright, M., & Zvacek, S. (2012) Teaching and learning at a distance:Foundations of distance education. Boston, MA: Pearson Education.
2. Palloff, R. M., & Pratt, K. (2013). Lessons from the virtual classroom: The realities of teaching online.San Francisco, CA: Jossey Bass.
