Advantages and Disadvantages of Modular Distance Learning

The modular distance learning model is a flexible education solution that fits the needs of learners from all over the country. Students from far-flung provinces, coastal areas, and communities unable to access electricity can benefit from modular distance learning. This format allows teachers and students to coordinate using e-mail, text, or instant messaging. It is also suitable for learners in communities that don’t have electricity or internet connectivity. Moreover, the teachers and students can interact with each other from the comforts of their homes.

Student-centered approach

A student-centered approach to modular distance learning emphasizes the importance of student voice and choice in the educational process. For example, Susan Patrick, President of Aurora Institute and co-founder of CompetencyWorks, believes that learning should be a collaborative process, with students determining the goals and strategies.

A student-centered approach to distance learning allows educators to customize instruction and provide equitable support for students, ensuring that all students have equal access to grade-level work. This method also engages stakeholders as partners in the learning process.

Self-study

Self-study is an important part of a modular distance learning course. Without guidance, students may find it difficult to absorb new information and keep up with the demands of modular learning. This problem is something that both students and teachers are trying to overcome. This student-centric approach has several advantages, including flexibility in scheduling and a focus on learning transferable skills.

Self-study allows students to take control of their learning, which can improve grades and motivation. It also encourages students to think deeply about the material. They also have the freedom to make connections between concepts, improving their ability to remember new information. This approach also helps students build study skills by reducing boredom and frustration.

Continuous assessment

Various benefits of continuous assessment have been identified. This approach is believed to support student learning and increase motivation. However, the study found that continuous assessment alone was not enough. Instructors must also be trained to implement the concept and provide constructive feedback. There are several challenges to implementing continuous assessment in modular distance learning.

One major obstacle is that students do not always have access to technology. In fact, in some cases, students have limited or no access to the internet. However, there are ways to facilitate assessment in modular distance learning. One way to deliver assessments is during remote face-to-face class sessions. Another option is to provide oral assessments through a telephone line. Other options include having students complete handwritten activities or photograph and text their responses.

Large class size

The ideal class size in a modular distance learning course can vary. It depends on several factors, including the instructor’s experience and course objectives. One study found that students who attended a small class had better outcomes than those who attended a large class. This finding may hold for many courses but is not universal.

The TEACH constraint is not linear, and the class size impacts contact hours more. Thus, the smallest classes have higher TEACHs, but larger classes require fewer per student. However, large lecture sizes can only be reduced for small cohorts, and the larger the class, the smaller the reduction in class size. In addition, students may become resistant to larger cohorts if they believe that the quality of the lectures will be compromised.

Disadvantages of teacher-centered approach

One of the primary disadvantages of using a teacher-centered approach to modular distance learning is the reliance on the teacher as the knowledge source. While this is beneficial, it also tends to be boring for students. They are often unable to ask questions or express their ideas. As a result, they might miss important details. Moreover, learners are often not encouraged to speak up and direct their learning, which is one of the primary benefits of a learner-centered approach.

Another drawback of a learner-centered approach is the difficulty in implementing it. This may result in some students feeling uncomfortable with the change and retreating. However, a learner-centered approach should accompany a clear commitment to the student’s goals.