eLearning Models

I think the Lone Ranger Model is good for small projects that are more for exploration of possible approaches to eLearning programs and not long term usage. As stated in the Bates text, often times the Lone Ranger approach results in a never ending project that doesn't have longevity. Usually professors prefer this approach because they are able to self- govern the project progress and make decisions they see fit. The exact opposite of the Lone Ranger Model is the Project Management Approach which is characterized by multiple individuals utilizing their areas of expertise to create one program or one course. Bates believes that this approach yield “high quality cost effective technology based teaching and learning” (Bates pg. 66). Finally, Kahns P3 Model divides the development of eLearning courses/programs into 3 phases; People, Process, and Products. I think that this model is a more intricate model of the Project Management Approach where several special teams or subject matter experts are in charge of one part of one project.

In my role as the Graduate Assistant for Career Services Paraprofessionals at The Career Center, I provide leadership for 25 undergraduate employees, which includes conducting their annual training.  Because the service provided by the Career Services Paraprofessionals involve face to face interactions with students across campus, I would not be logical to teach them how to conduct resume and cover letter reviews session via eLearning. However, if this were an option I were going to explore, I think the Lone Ranger approach would best because of the uniqueness of the paraprofessional program.

Visioning and Planning for eLearning Programs

In today’s society, there is perceived inferiority of online programs the quality of educations students participating in such programs receive.  It is because of this perception that it is essential to have a clear vision to prove the value of eLearning programs and gain buy-in from key stakeholders. Visioning is the key to addressing important issues, such as the cost of the program, policies & procedures, and compensation for faculty. If these issues are not addressed it can be detrimental to the longevity of the online program. In terms of visioning versus planning, I do agree with Bates that having a clear and defined vision is more important than the planning. It is from the visioning process that departmental or institutional leaders are able to define objectives and goals that the department or university should be working towards. Planning would not be successful, in my opinion, if there is no clear end to work towards. The aspect of leadership and vision that stayed with me after reading chapter 2 of the Bates book again is that it is essential to have buy-in from faculty and staff in order for technological visions to be realized. As Bates stated, often time’s staff and especially faculty view changes that drastically affect their work as a threat. To offset this, the leaders must prove to faculty and staff the changes will actually enhance their work.

eLearning Management: Through Lexi’s Eyes

Novak. (2012, April 26). Eyes Wallpaper. 

Retrieved from Pictures Collections:

 http://picturescollections.com/eyes-photos/wallpapersru-art-pack-112002/

eLearning management is the act of ensuring that a eLearning program is appealing to all stakeholders. When I worked as a Training Specialist for an organization, I trained undergraduate college students to be telemarketers. For those who don’t know, telemarketing is probably at the top of the list of most boring jobs and the training program was even worse! I was tasked with revamping the training program to improve the rapport building skills of the telemarketers. In order to be successful I had to ensure that I provided management with evidence of progress and ensure that resources were used as efficiently as possible, I had to ensure that my fellow training specialist were comfortable using the new training tools and techniques, and finally I had to ensure that the content was engaging to the audience and improved their skills. All of these factors are essential to managing the development and implementation of any training course whether it is through face to face instruction or through eLearning.

eLearning: As Defined by Lexi

Appletree Virtual classroom. (2010) World.  
Retrieved from www.appletreetraining.com/?page_id=105

There have been several definitions of eLearning throughout the years as the market has changed with innovation and new ideas. According to Lynch and Roecker, eLearning is “an innovative approach for delivering well designed, learner-centered, interactive, and facilitated learning environment to anyone, any place, anytime…” From this definition and the readings, I have developed my own definition that is more palatable to me which is; eLearning is a platform where students from anywhere in the world can convene and learn in the same digital classroom at their convenience. I think the key terms, no matter how the definition is worded, are convenience because students are able to learn at their own place, and anywhere because students to have to be in the same geographical location to take part in the class.