Network Theory and Distance Learning

Social network theory and distance learning technology are being combined to make distance learning courses more effective. Social network analysis focuses on uncovering the patterns of interaction between people.

These patterns play an important part in the lives of many individuals. How people live depends on how they are linked to the larger web of social connections.

Social Network Theory

According to social network theory, the types of ties and networks that people are involved in have a bigger effect on their behavior than their individual norms and attributes. Traditional sociological theories assume that it is the attributes of the individual that matter.

Smaller, closer networks may not be as useful to their members, as more open networks with a lot of loose connections to individuals outside the network. Open networks are likely to provide many more new ideas and opportunities to their members than closed networks. A group of people who only stick to each other will only have access to the same knowledge, and opportunities.

Distance Learning

Social network theory and distance learning techniques are being combined to create and maintain a sense of community among distance learners. This type of bonding is usually found in classes where students meet each other, work together and form relationships.

Social network analysis has revealed that the change in a student's attitude is significantly influenced by the change in the attitudes of the other students. New technology is helping people to schedule meetings, improve decision making and learning processes.

Students need to be made to feel that they are close to the center of the network and are in a position to share information with the other members. They need to feel that they are close to the other members of the network. Those who feel isolated may not make as much progress.

There is a direct link between social network theory and distance learning. Apart from the lessons, distance learning students need to be taught how to use the communications media and to work together to accomplish tasks. They also need to be familiar with the other members of the class.

Informal communication with other members of the distance learning group can help students to communicate outside class time. Interaction can be improved by having each individual work with several subgroups over the long term, rather than only with one subgroup.

Social network theory and distance learning technology are dramatically changing the way people teach and learn.

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