Module 2: Journal by Song and Hill

Song and Hill in their journal, “A Conceptual Model for Understanding Self-Directed Learning in Online Environments,” very nicely discussed about learners’ self-directed attributes for online studies and linked it with a new topic called- Self Directed Learning. Therefore, the main focus of this journal is to understanding self directed learning in online educational context.

According to Song and Hill, different scholars have presented different perspectives on SDL. For example, some scholars consider self direction as a personal attribute; some of them think it as a process of organizing the instruction. Candy is one of the scholars who think self direction as a personal attribute and introduced a four-dimensional model-personal autonomy, self-management, learner control, and autodidaxy.

Garrison is another scholar that Song and Hill talked about, who also believe SDL as a personal attribute as well as a learning process. Garrison talked about three dimensions—self-management, self-monitoring, and motivation—which interacts with each other in the SDL model. He also tried to explain that self management and learner control do not mean isolation or independent study; rather, collaborating with other people within the context. For instance, EDU4766-Web Based Learning is very much like that where interacts with each other and share own thoughts and ideas.

In terms of conceptual model of self-directed learning for online environment, Song and Hill emphasized on the importance of SDL in distance education and a high level of self-direction for learners to succeed in online learning environment. Three things are important for ‘SDL personal attributes in an online context’: resources, strategies and motivation. Online learning resource is huge and it is very important for learners to have appropriate control over it. Therefore, learners need to actively explore various learning resources, develop strategies to effectively use those resources, and overcome challenges that are associated with online learning. Some of the unique challenges in online education include not being able to get close to the teacher, which is possible in a face-to-face environment. In traditional class settings, an instructor is able to judge the level of understanding of the entire class, which is not possible for an online course. Technology is off course another drawback, which sometimes can never be overcome (such as, troubled internet connection, not being able to use computer from a remote location). Moreover, since the course is taught remotely, sometimes delay in response from instructors would affect the learners in the learning process. Research shows that instructors spend more time in teaching online course than a face-to-face class. The heavy workload sometimes makes it impossible for the instructor to monitor each student’s activities and respond promptly to each one of them.

Finally, although there are drawbacks related to planning, monitoring, and evaluating online learning, flexibility has still been the greatest support for online learning. Moreover, students learn more and spend more time on reading peers’ posting and try to explore a topic more closely than a traditional class, which is an add-on to their knowledge. I would say taking online course is worthwhile and allows student to learn greater self motivation and self control.