Web Based Learning

Last week we had a presentation in class from Sophia Palahicky on web-based courses in Manitoba schools. I have never taken an online course before and was intrigued by the information she provided us. I was not aware that there were so many advances in this direction, or how prevalent it is in the schools already. Personally, I am quite apprehensive about web-based courses, and hesitant toward trying them. This probably stems from the difficulties I have had in the past with technology, as well as negative experiences that have been expressed by my peers who have received instruction in this manner. When looking at the overall idea of web-based learning my feelings are quite mixed. Although I do not think I would enjoy or benefit from web-based courses, I do see some potential gains for others. I have thought long and hard about if I would use them in my classroom, and I have decided that they would not be as beneficial in an early years setting as they might be in high school. I think the benefits of using web-based learning in early years, would be to supplement a lecture or provide the information to students who have been absent from class. A major factor of education is accommodating all types of learners, and recognizing that all students learn in different ways, with different tools and at different rates. By providing web-based learning students who may struggle in a classroom, might very well succeed and excel using an online system. That being said, I do not believe that they should completely replace the classroom setting or the physical presence of an educator. I think web-based learning should be used in conjunction with the physical presence of an educator. These courses would be beneficial for traveling athletes, absent students, or those who would like to review the information from the lecture.

Before I post all of my entries, I read over them to make sure I have said all I want to about a topic. Although I currently have a negative feeling toward web-based learning, I feel there is much more I can learn about these courses and I am looking forward to hearing the positives regarding this initiative in the Manitoba school system.


During her presentation, Sophia shared this video with our class. It is quite powerful at explaining the difference between the previous education system (when I was in school) and how educators teach in today's classrooms.