The Flip Flop Librarian: Distance Education Tools

Distance Education is a vital part of how students are educated today and it is expected to continue and grow in the future. Education and technology are quickly evolving and changing every day, so it is helpful to learn about current and upcoming technologies that can help the distance learner.

In the past, I have taken distance education classes, and they have all been taught a number of different ways, through live television courses, interactive conferencing, and online. I have most enjoyed the classes I am currently enrolled in at the University of Southern Mississippi. The classes are online, but different from what I have always known as 'online' classes. In the past, online classes meant that the teacher posted all of the course information and objectives on blackboard, gave students assignments, and posted specific due dates for turning in materials. The current online classes I am enrolled in are real time chat classes. This gives the instructors and students a set class time each week for lectures and questions. Outside of these classes, there are several tools that can be utilized by students for collaboration with other students, or just as helpful aids to work on assignments.

Social Networking Sites:

• Facebook – personal and professional networking

• LinkedIn – professional networking

• Twitter – Personal and marketing opportunities

• MySpace – personal networking

• Google+ - personal and professional networking

• Live Journal – personal networking

Podcasts/Videocasts:

• Skype – Video conferencing

• You Tube – video distribution

• Vimeo – video distribution

• Voice Thread – cloud based media presentations