DISTANCE EDUCATION: A PLACE FOR FAMILY AND CONSUMER SCIENCES

Distance education, in its many forms, has arrived in today’s society. This paper will briefly discuss the history and current applications of distance education. The benefits and limitations of distance education are elaborated upon. In most cases, limitations can be overcome, related insights are shared. A brief description of the author’s experience with a distance education course in Family and Consumer Sciences is presented. Related conclusions and implications for Family and Consumer Science professionals are drawn. The discussion has been underway for some time now. Is distance education a good idea? Is it good for students? universities? professors? Family and Consumer Scientists? Before we begin the debate, a definition is in order. Distance education is “the process whereby the education of a student occurs in circumstances where the educator and the student are geographically separated, and the communication across the distance is accomplished by one or more forms of technology, typically electronic, such as television and computers, though, strictly speaking, not limited to these media” (Rubiales, et al., pg. 32). Essentially, distance education can occur in a variety of forms. Proponents argue that distance education is a win-win situation for both faculty and students, while opponents say that distance education is a disservice to everyone involved. Many authors have pondered the subject, and most make valid points about the benefits and limitations of distance education. Despite the negative aspects of distance education, it is possible to provide a quality program while still maintaining academic integrity and preserving university faculty positions. Educators within the area of Family and Consumer Sciences have traditionally used a variety of media to teach their courses. Uses of professional journals, videos, brochures, etc. have provided a multitude of valuable experiences for students. New technology now provides students with access to the Internet and an infinite number of online resources that relate to family and consumer issues (Reichbach, 1995). This technology, coupled wit innovative instructional design, allows state-of-the-art education. This paper will briefly discuss the history and current applications of distance education. The issues surrounding distance education are debatable and sometimes controversial, therefore, both benefits and limitations will be elaborated upon. It is probable that distance education will play an important role in the future of Family and Consumer Science education, as well as, higher education in the United States and the world. Related conclusions and implications for Family and Consumer Sciences will be shared.