LDT 523 Reflection: The Future of Online and Blended Learning

What will the future of online and blended learning look like in 2035? This question is essential in the field of learning design to further innovation to generate a strong educational future. With artificial intelligence rolling out across the globe, the increased use of virtual reality outside of the video game sector, and mobile learning being more common, the future of learning is endless and exciting. It is likely that these emerging technologies will provide learners with a more personalized educational experience. To achieve this, data insights can provide targeted support. Artificial intelligence will be resourceful to leverage here in identifying ways to maximize student success. To add, AI can also be leveraged to generate different learning opportunities or pathways. This would be able to support diverse learners which is essential across online learning. After all, distance learners are often coming from backgrounds that are not accommodating to on campus participation, therefore it is really important to make sure instructors are meeting students where they are at for optimal education. To add, immersive technology such as virtual reality can be a really great way to allow students the chance to dive into the learning segment. Since virtual reality is a way for one to simulate the environment, it will be able to accommodate different learning types (ex: auditory, tactile, reading etc.). 

Another factor that will have a large impact on online and blended learning is gamification. This learning strategy has been a hot topic within the educational industry especially in recent years. AI platforms such as ChatGPT could be leveraged to easily generate games for a specific topic or module in the blink of an eye! Elements such as leaderboards, exciting visual design aspects, and badges can act as rewards for distance learners, both driving engagement and fostering a positive learning environment. To add, the above possibilities would not be exclusive to zip code, state, or even country - students will be able to participate internationally given the lack of technology constraints I imagine there will be in 2035. Each of the aforementioned examples would be able to support global learners. Virtual classrooms and digital learning suites will allow students to participate in content multimodally. For example, virtual learning options such as participating via zoom for hosting open door meetings or live lectures will simulate students on ground campus learning and social interaction. On the other hand, digital suites such as google suite or Canvas groups can support learners working asynchronously within their assigned team on projects without having to agree on a specific time. 

One concept I find particularly fascinating is the idea of virtual field trips with the use of online learning. By using multiple different virtual platforms, this can be achieved now; however, by the year 2035, there may be a third party platform that supports virtual field trips. This could be done through virtual reality rentals for a top tier immersive learning experience. Another way this could be achieved is if the third party service uses the same visual experience without virtual reality so that distance learners can join in a group zoom meeting and experience the “field trip” as well. Virtual reality labs are a really big opportunity for pre-health students to be able to participate in labs that simulate the lab. Although this is something currently supported by Dreamscape learn and similar companies, I imagine that it would be more robust, fine tuned, and accessible by the year 2035. 

Finally, when exploring learning opportunities available virtually ten years from now, I think options will be more readily available. This will encompass internships, learning opportunities virtually in countries that may not currently have strong and reliable internet access, and mobile learning. When it comes to higher education, internships or practicum experiences are necessary across certain fields. It is my prediction that internships will be more widespread online for distance learners so that they can have some applications with the course content remotely. Although internships' in-person component is very important for the social skills needed for a particular job and for the student to see the interworking of the expected work, virtual internships should not be thrown out although they do not encompass all of the previously mentioned points. Having virtual internships is more beneficial than having no internship experience. The future of learning in the year 2035 can certainly support these distance experiential learning opportunities. 

When examining the concept of learning virtually, there are certainly locations globally that experience technological barriers to enable this format. Just as with most technological advances on an international scale, eventually, individuals have access to more technical connectivity (i.e. cell phone, tablet, computer). Programs that have lending capabilities for laptops or that offer refurbished computers to learners will be really helpful in ensuring we are preparing the global population for distance learning opportunities in the future. It is also important to consider how internet access in rural regions can be facilitated so that technology in remote parts of the world can be used. With more individuals using mobile cell phones and the world leaning into satellites for internet access, struggling governments may be able to generate partnerships with leadering technology companies so that students can obtain their online education. At this time, one leading learning management system (LMS), Canvas, has a very robust user experience and interface on their mobile app. This makes learning opportunities greater as a student has access to complete an assignment on the subway for example- ultimately the student can complete course tasks while on the go! I believe mobile learning will be very accessible, not just through one learning management system, but through multiple different options making the LMS market more competitive and saturated.