Distance Learning – the Current Status and Directions for Further Research

Abstract

The article aims to discuss current research trends in the field of Distance Learning (DL). It consists of the following parts: (1) the definitions and characteristics of DL; (2) current directions of research in the field of DL, among others: measuring transactional distance in Web-Based Learning Environments, Problem-Based Learning (PBL) in DL, development of learning content and the task for MOOCs, effects of online course efficiency perceptions on Student Evaluation of Teaching (SET) measures, new technologies for the DL, the use of metacognitive and affective model Self-Regulated Learning (MASRL), questionnaire (Constructivist Learning on a Scale Higher Settings of Education [CLHES]) as a method of research of constructivist learning environment in higher education, Transactional Distance (TD) theory in DL and online community culture; (3) summary and conclusions with a particular focus on the use of DL methods in higher education. The article is based on the study of literature registered in the databases ERIC, LISA, and LISTA.

Learning Technologies for People with Mild Intellectual Disabilities. From Digital Exclusion to Inclusive E-education in Network Society

“…The socializing aspects seem to be of the most interest of social scientists. So far in literature the main topics of discussions have been the potential opportunities for people with MID to create and sustain social relationships online that transcend the individual's disability, allowing them to develop an identity as an independent person and transcend social distance (Szulc, 2020). Development of Internet content could lead to reducing social stigma of a person with MID.…”

“…The mode of implementation also interacts with the learning process. The analysis of unnecessary barriers to his/her interaction with a computer or connecting device is crucial in the development of people--friendly technologies (Szulc, 2020). Accessibili ty should be recognised as a key element in the design of technology-assisted training systems (Bayor et al, 2021).…”

Measuring Student Involvement When Taking Tests in E-learning Courses

“…The concept of distance learning is the broadest concept because it includes correspondence learning, television and radio forms, and e-learning (Szulc, 2020). At schools and universities, e-learning is mainly used for distance learning.…”