Despite our conversations in this course about the implications of how technology is culturally biased, I have been hearing about the benefits of e-learning programs for students in rural and remote first nation communities. As portrayed in the media, this seems to be the route that is favoured as it addresses two issues that are discussed in the media, digital divide and graduation/post-secondary education. I am interested in both of these areas so I was looking to see if any studies had been completed.
This one from Memorial University looked at high school aged students in Labrador.
http://www.cjlt.ca/index.php/cjlt/article/view/545/268
This one from University of Victoria looked at post-secondary programs.
http://www.ecdip.org/docs/pdf/Ind%20Ed%20Conf%20paper%2007.pdf
Both discussed the issues of access and logistics, and concluded that e-learning should be developed as one of many options for learners to choose from but should not be expected to be the “magic fix” that I think many politicians are hoping for.
Catherine