Introduction:

The best learning tool that suits Jack will be distributed learning tool, and rather than only one opening learning tool, our group found that it is better to combine distributed learning tool with face to face classes. Jack is very busy during daytime and have a very intense schedule everyday, so the distributed learning could helps Jack on  time management and more flexible options on schedule, which will relief tons of pressure on Jack and he could arrange his time in a more reasonable way. Since Jack is lacking skills of social skills, by attend to face to face night class after working, helps Jack to practice his communication skills and eventually help him to make more friends and have more people who could collaborate with him. Last but not least, by learning in a distributed environment, it will ease more financial pressure from Jack since the online course is more cheaper than a regular class, so by accessing the distributed learning will help Jack to have a better learning experience and have a brighter future. 

Access:

Our group believes that distributed learning better suits Jack’s plan in terms of access. First of all, he can has his own time outside fixed working time, so that he could arrange all his classes to work with his schedule. Since Jack also owns a car, he could either take night face-to-face classes or take online classes after off work. Even though time seems to be more flexible with open learning classes for Jack, we believe that the flexibility of the entire class time frame would possibly put off Jack’s studies plan. For example, he may choose not to study for a day just because he feels tired or gets a “hung out” call from a friend. Secondly, he is able to adopt new computer applications quickly and also got fast internet connections and fully functional laptop at home, which would support him with any class materials downloading, and complete any tasks using different applications the professors ask for.  Lastly, with the money that Jack has saved for the last two years and monthly salary from his current job, tuition fees will not be an issue for him if to take most online classes and few classroom-based classes.  For Jack, complete a program efficiently is the first step for him to work in the field he really likes, which we believe it is the priority at this stage, therefore, there must be some sacrifice to make, such as money, free time,  in order to learn what he desired in a short time.

Engagement:

Open learning can best engage Jack in having a better learning atmosphere and experience. This approach provides multiple ways of accessing learning materials based on Jack’s preferred choice. Jack works from Mon to Thursday, an indication that he has a lot of time studying and doing other personal activities. An open learning environment is Jack-centered design principles. It gives activities and contexts that promote his efforts in understanding what he appears important because, at first, it supports personal sense (Vaughan, Cleveland-Innes, & Garrison, 2013). Since Jack has many other activities during his off days, self-directed learning will serve his interests at best under specific guidance and support.
Jack is allowed to control and schedule his duties to align them with the preferred choice of learning. He is flexible to adjust either to virtual learning or attend the classroom lessons. When he cannot make for the classroom, he is allowed to build strategies to share information, give, and receive reassurances from peers. According to Jordan & Weller (2017), open learning enables a tutor to recognize learners as mature people and the social context in which learning occurs. As a result, Jack has the opportunity of getting help from social networks and professional networks. In general, open learning will enable Jack to match his practice area and the academic institution. Lecturers need to allow Jack to study from his workplace in times when he cannot attend classes.

Expression:

Exchanging ideas with classmates is one way to have a better understanding of the lesson. More brains is better than one brain. Therefore, communication takes a great part in a good learning environment. Jack is an introverted person and lacking of social skills, he is afraid of public speaking and making eye contact with other people. Therefore, in the distributed learning environment Jack can study without stress and concern. He doesn’t have to worry about the fear of talking or making eye contact with classmates to distract him from the class. In an environment where he feels comfortable, Jack is able to concentrate on class. Also, communication through the network makes it easier for Jack to have conversations and exchange ideas with his classmates. Jack is gifted in using technology; so, he can fluently use internet as a medium to chat with classmate. Furthermore, Jack may choose to communicate with classmates online and then gradually go on try to meet with classmates face to face. This step-by-step approach will help Jack to make friends and will not interfere with his normal school life.We believe in the distributed learning environment Jack can have a better opportunity to study well and success.

Works Cited:

Jordan, K., & Weller, M. (2017). Jordan, K. & Weller, M. (2017) Openness and Education: A beginners’ guide. Global OER Graduate Network.

Vaughan, N. D., Cleveland-Innes, M., & Garrison, D. R. (2013). Teaching in blended learning environments: Creating and sustaining communities of inquiry. Athabasca University Press.

Shared by: