Open vs. Distance Learning: Is there a Difference?

Is there a difference between open and distance learning? Some people may claim that they are one and the same but I think there is a distinction between the two. I get this question a lot and this is what I have to say:

Distance education is approached in various ways, with the more popular formats being print, audio, video, broadcast radio, television, and of course computers and the Internet. It is characterised by separation of geographic distance and time.

Open learning is defined as an approach to learning that allows learners flexibility and choice over what, when, at what pace, where, and how they learn. Open learning tends to be delivered via distance education that is characterised by separation of geographic distance and time.

Open and Distance Learning (ODL) is therefore a term used to describe learning that uses ICTs to provide or enhance learning.

e-Learners and e-Learning- Making Connections

As an e-learner, e-learning developer, and e-learning educator, I am constantly looking for ways to learn new skills and knowledge that I can then apply into my daily activities, and to transfer that to my students as well.

One thing I have learned over the years as an educator is that to be good at teaching something, you must learn it yourself, figure out how you learned it and then picture your learners in your shoes. That way, you don't make too many assumptions (i.e. talk down or assume they have already interacted with that information before, or in the same way).

By the same token, to learn something, teaching it is the best way to learn it. First, you have to figure out the tone, the structure and the method. So, if you are looking for some way to teach a new software tool to a group of learners try that approach. You may not perfect it the first time but with different trials, it gets easier.

What is e-Learning?

Many terms have been used to define e-learning in the past. For example web-based training, computer-based training or web-based learning, and online learning are a few synonymous terms that have over the last few years been labeled as e-learning. Each of this implies a "just-in-time" instructional and learning approach.

Regardless of the definition you chose to use, designers, developers, and implementers make or break the instructional courses and tools. E-learning is simply a medium for delivering learning and like any other medium, it has its advantages and disadvantages. E-learning covers a wide array of activities from supported learning, to blended or hybrid learning (the combination of traditional and e-learning practices), to learning that occurs 100% online.

Sound e-learning is founded on instructional design principles pedagogical elements that take into account learning theories. Given its nature, online distance education is well matched with e-learning and flexible learning but is also used for in-class teaching and blended learning.

More on e-Learning.