ICT Essentials for Teachers (Module 3)

What’s the difference between remote, online, and distance learning?

Currently, there is debate about the difference between remote, online, and distance learning. Some educators equate “remote” and “distance” learning as both being performed away from the school and classroom. But other educators distinguish the terms by emphasizing that “remote” learning has emerged as an emergency intervention as a result of the coronavirus, while distance learning is more thoughtfully and proactively planned out.

Online learning, on the other hand, is different. It offers a course of study online without trying to replicate the face-to-face classroom experience. For that reason, online courses are designed over several months to offer students a series of learning engagements that are tailored to an entirely online environment. Rather than providing traditional lectures, or a sequence of assignments to complete, online learning includes a variety of modalities that guide students through content modules. Special attention is paid to eliciting emotion and motivation in students and being intentional in encouraging students to apply their knowledge frequently. The social and emotional parts of learning is getting much more attention in the teaching world in the form of social-emotional learning.