Feature Photo by Chris Montgomery on Unsplash

Introduction

Hello, my name is Swoyam Rajbhandari and I am an undergraduate in the program of Computer Science, currently in my 4th year. I am an international student from Nepal and am looking forward to having this class with you all.

Moving to a new country for studies was both an exciting and challenging experience. Adapting to a completely different education system, culture, and language taught me the values of resilience and resourcefulness. These experiences have shaped me into a more independent learner and a better problem solver—qualities that are invaluable in Computer Science.

What is Distributed Education?

The way I understand distributed learning, it is the spreading of different modes of educational information and resources throughout different locations, often using technology. This model significantly differs from traditional learning, where instruction typically occurs in a centralized physical classroom with a fixed schedule. Some of the differences are:

Location:

  • Traditional: Learners gather in a single location, such as a school or university.
  • Distributed: Learning takes place online or across multiple locations.

Schedule:

  • Traditional: Classes follow a fixed schedule and occur at specific times.
  • Distributed: Learning is often self-paced, with options for synchronous real-time interactions.

Interaction:

  • Traditional: Interaction is face-to-face, with discussions and activities conducted in person.
  • Distributed: Collaboration and interaction occur through digital means, such as forums, video calls, or other online tools.

Implications for Accessibility and Flexibility

  • Accessibility: Distributive education reduces barriers related to travel, relocation, or physical disabilities, creating opportunities that would otherwise be inaccessible. It supports the use of various learning formats, such as multimedia content and adaptive technologies, to cater to individual needs.
  • Flexibility: Learners can access course materials at any time and in the manner that best suits them, making it easier to balance education with personal and professional responsibilities. This model of learning fosters lifelong learning while earning, particularly among adults aiming to upskill or reskill.

What is Open Education?

Open Education encompasses principles and practices focused on openness, access, equality, and the elimination of barriers in education. It leverages openly licensed products, tools, and resources—such as Open Educational Resources (OER)—to provide free access to quality education for all, regardless of socio-economic background, geographic location, or institutional affiliation. Open Education empowers educators and learners to create and share knowledge freely and collaboratively.

Contributions to Inclusivity and Equity

  • Free Resources: Open Education provides free access to learning materials, including textbooks, videos, and courses. This significantly reduces educational costs, enabling underprivileged students to access quality education.
  • Meeting Diverse Needs: Openly licensed resources can be tailored to meet the diverse needs of learners. For instance, materials can be translated into multiple languages, adapted to reflect cultural relevance, or modified to accommodate disabilities.
  • Global Collaboration: By removing financial and geographic barriers, Open Education fosters global collaboration. It enables individuals from any part of the world to learn, share, and contribute ideas, enriching the educational experience with greater inclusiveness.
  • Empowerment of Marginalized Groups: Open Education democratizes knowledge, allowing individuals and communities to contribute their perspectives and expertise to learning materials. This ensures representation and inclusivity within educational resources.

Open Education reduces inequity by addressing high financial costs and systemic barriers, thereby leveling the playing field. It transforms quality education from a privilege for a few into a fundamental right for all.

In essence, Open Education has the potential to revolutionize traditional education systems by prioritizing equity, inclusion, and collaboration. It aligns with the vision of education as a universal human right, fostering a world where everyone can learn, grow, and thrive freely.

Modes of Learning

The different modes of learning are as follows:

  • Face-to-face: This is the traditional approach where students are taught in-person in a classroom or similar physical settings.
  • Online: The learning is done through a digital platform over the internet. It can be synchronous (live) or asynchronous (recorded or self-paced).
  • Blended: Combines face-to-face and online learning methods. For instance, students might attend lectures in person and complete additional materials online.
  • Hybrid: It is an extended version of blended learning where students are given the choice to attend classes in-person or online.

The following is a video on differences between online, blended, and hybrid learning modes:

Preferred Mode of Learning (Online)

Photo by Lucas Law on Unsplash

I prefer the online mode of learning. My preference is usually heavily influenced by my personal learning style and availability. I thrive in a learning environment where I can learn at my own pace. The following advantages are the reasons why I prefer it to the other modes:

  • Flexible Scheduling: Online learning platforms allow me to access materials and complete assignments whenever it suits me. This flexibility enables me to schedule study time around other commitments and learn at a pace that aligns with my needs.
  • Variety of Resources: A wide range of online materials, including videos, readings, and interactive tools, is available. These resources lets me choose the methods that best match my learning style.
  • Customized Learning Space: Online learning gives me the freedom to create a study environment tailored to my preferences, free from the distractions of a traditional classroom. I can choose where and how you learn, promoting comfort and focus.

Influence on Engagement and Success

  • Face-to-Face Learning: This mode promotes active participation and fosters a sense of community, enhancing engagement. However, it lacks the flexibility I need to create a comfortable and adaptable learning environment for myself.
  • Online Learning: Online learning allows me to embrace self-directed learning and take responsibility for my own education. However, it can lead to feelings of isolation or distractions if not properly managed. These challenges can be mitigated by staying connected with peers through online platforms and engaging in virtual discussions.
  • Blended Learning: Blended learning strikes a balance between flexibility and in-person engagement, offering a personalized approach to education. Nevertheless, I prefer a consistent learning medium that provides either a stable learning environment or the convenience of studying on my own terms.
  • Hybrid Learning: An extension of blended learning, hybrid learning offers even greater flexibility by allowing me to choose between attending sessions in person or online. This adaptability helps me tailor my learning environment to suit situational needs, which can contribute to improved success rates.

Digital Literacy

The ability to access, evaluate, create, and communicate information effectively in the digital world is known as digital literacy. It extends beyond technical skills, requiring critical thinking, ethical awareness, and adaptability in using digital tools. Digital literacy encompasses how individuals interact with digital platforms, assess the credibility of online information, and use technology to collaborate and solve problems.

Importance in Open and Distributed Learning

In open and distributed learning contexts, digital literacy is crucial because technology is the bridge to communication, content delivery, and collaboration. Here are the key reasons why digital literacy is vital:

  • Access to Information: Understanding how to retrieve reliable and relevant resources from the vast pool of digital information is essential.
  • Collaboration: Digital literacy enables effective participation in group projects, discussions, and virtual collaborations using tools like Google Workspace, Microsoft Teams, or Slack.
  • Self-Directed Learning: Open learning often requires students to take greater ownership of their education. Digital literacy empowers learners to explore and engage independently with a range of online resources.
  • Engagement with Tools: Proficiency in using learning management systems such as Moodle, Blackboard, or Canvas is essential for completing coursework and accessing course materials.

Examples of Effects on Learning

  • Advanced Search Ability: My ability to critically evaluate sources has improved my academic work. For instance, when researching, I use advanced search techniques and citation tools to locate credible articles.
  • Interactive Learning Tools: By leveraging tools like H5P, I’ve developed interactive content such as quizzes and videos, enhancing the teaching and learning experience.
  • Efficient Collaboration: Tools like Google Docs have streamlined group projects by enabling real-time collaboration and effective communication among team members.
  • Skill Development: Using coding environments, data visualization tools, and content creation software has prepared me for technical tasks in both academic and professional settings.

In conclusion, digital literacy bridges the gap between learners and the vast knowledge and tools available online. It empowers students to actively participate in their education while equipping them with essential skills for the digital age.

Digital Identity

Photo by Ben Sweet on Unsplash

Most of my digital identities, such as Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook, are primarily personal and non-educational in nature, serving as platforms to connect with family and friends. On the other hand, platforms like Reddit, Quora, Discord, Github, Linkedlin are more focused on my educational pursuits and professional life.

I use Reddit and Quora mainly to ask questions or browse through existing content related to topics of interest. Discord, however, is where I engage with course-specific channels, participate in class discussions, and exchange digital educational materials. This platform also helps me build connections with my peers and collaborate on academic tasks. Also, I have Linkedlin and Github to manage my digital identity that carefully curates my online profiles, interactions, and shared content to reflect my academic and professional goals. For example, my GitHub profile showcases my coding projects and contributions, demonstrating my skills to potential employers.