Topic 2: ODeL Theories

Specific Learning Outcome
By the end of this topic you should be able to express knowledge of the main ODeL theories.

Introduction
Considering the fact that ODeL is a research field on its own, it is necessary to familiarise yourself with the predominant theories in the field. However, theories from other disciplines may also be used in ODeL research given the transdisciplinary nature of ODeL.

Guidance
Familiarise yourself with an overview of the major theories in distance education by reading the article embedded below - Theorizing in Distance Education: The critical quest for conceptual foundations. Thereafter, view Anderson's (2011) slides on 'An Overview of the Major Theories of Distance Education' and then download and read the articles Anderson and Dron (2011) 'Three Generations of Distance Education Pedagogy' and Bates (2014) 'Learning Theories and Online Learning'. Lastly, view the video below 'What is Theory?' (EPE, 2017).

Time needed
You'll need approximately 2.4 hours to engage with the content in this topic.

Resources

 * Birochi, R., & Pozzebon, M. (2011) Theorizing in Distance Education: The Critical Quest for Conceptual Foundations. MERLOT Journal of online learning and teaching, 7(4). (PDF - 249KB)
 * Anderson, T. (2011) An overview of the major theories of Distance Education. Doctoral Seminar, Nova University (SlideShare)
 * Anderson, T., & Dron, J. (2011) Three generations of distance education pedagogy. IRRODL, 12(3). (PDF - 159KB)
 * Bates, T. (2014) Learning theories and online learning. Online Learning and Distance Education Resources. Contact North (External website)
 * What is Theory? Using a Theoretical Framework (Enhancing Postgraduate Environments, 2017) (Video - 4m12s) - https://youtu.be/6xcEElcSzr8

Learning Activities
Activity 1.2.1 : Study the resources provided above. Then, draw a concept map linking the various theories to specific online learning activities.

Activity 1.2.2 : Create a table (in MS Word, MS Excel, or another suitable program) or list comparing ODeL theories that you're familiar with and then their link to problems identified in ODeL practice.

Once you have completed the two learning activities, kindly move onto Topic 3: Why research in ODeL? (Scholarship of ODeL Teaching and Learning).