Moving Forward With Web-Based Learning

Feb 27, 2020

by Doreen Hinksman, AP, Past Chief Commander

Since CPS-ECP started its journey towards offering Distance Education almost 20 years ago, its proponents would today be delighted to see our steady progress.

Although classroom course presentation maintains a very special place in our organization, we have not ignored the needs of a considerable number of prospective students.

The flexibility of web-based learning allows students the freedom to study in ways that suits their particular circumstances. Models including self-paced learning (asynchronous) undertaken at any time anywhere, and blended learning, an instructional approach involving both online and in-person instruction.

Both models have been embraced by several squadrons across the country. We remain fortunate to have talented volunteers who enable us, via their innovation and dedication, to bring these various models to our students.

Studying alone can have its drawbacks, such as a feeling of isolation and a lack of emotional support. Many educational institutions are promoting mentorship programs, chat sessions, discussion boards and other supports that help combat these feelings.

It was assumed that by offering online and blended learning courses, CPS-ECP would engage a younger group of students than we normally attract for classroom courses. Surprisingly, statistics have shown that most online learners are, on average, older than face-to-face learners.

When you analyze the reasons given by students who decide to take courses online, you can understand this demographic. Work commitments, family engagement and the driving distance to class are just some of the reasons given.

We have much work to do encouraging our seasoned instructors to embrace new instruction methods as well as find ways to bring online students into our CPS-ECP family of members and volunteers. That is one of our great challenges as we move our organization forward.