Asynchronous and Distance Communication Over Digital Networks

There have been various descriptions of Learning Styles expressed over the years. All are based on how the individual gathers and processes information. From Schmeck’s (1983) construct of cognitive complexity and Kolb’s (1984) model of information processing, to Gardners (1983, 1993) multiple intelligences, these Learning Styles are all said to influence, if not predetermine, our preferred method of learning particular subjects and thereby predispose us each to only a few ways of learning. The paradigms utilised in Distance Education have evolved over many years, however, it is only relatively recently that Multimedia has been able to fulfil an integral role in facilitating Distance Learning through being able to provide differing instructional techniques to suit these different Learning Styles. The facilitation of Education must always rely on content rather than the technology of the delivery medium. A well-drawn sketch on a blackboard can convey information much better than a poorly produced slide-show. This paper identifies the emerging New Media Communication Hybrid Technologies and devices, including Wearable Computing and 3D/Omnidirectional Video Imaging, and how they will be effective for facilitating true Flexible Delivery through a combination of Pedagogical Techniques and methods. These Communication Technologies will empower educators to construct asynchronous learning environments where all learners can be actively engaged in their individual learning experience, despite their differing Learning Styles. The paper also describes how the geographical barriers currently limiting the delivery of Distance Education, such as lack of electricity, telephone and broadband infrastructure, can also be broken down so that learners universally can become more actively involved in their own education.