- AWARENESS
In distance and online education, awareness is the beginning stage where learners search for the availability of online courses and choose the field, which their interested. This awareness is crucial for deciding the course and learning techniques.
Catalyst:
- Seeing an advertisement, recommendation, or social media post.
- Communication from peers or instructors.
- Browsing an educational platform (e.g., Coursera, Udemy).
Impact:
- Ignite curiosity and interest.
- Initiates the mental process of evaluating relevance and value.
- SEARCH
Once aware, learners begin searching for applicable courses and resource materials. Efficient searching ensures the learners to find appropriate content that are relevant to their objectives.
Catalyst:
- Searching platforms by theme, duration, reviews, or price.
- Comparing different courses or institutions.
Impact:
- Helps learners define their needs and preferences.
- Often influences initial expectations.
- EXPECTATION
Expectations refer to the learners' anticipations regarding the course content, outcomes, and their own performance. Clear course objectives and transparent communication from instructors help in setting realistic expectations.
Catalyst:
- Course descriptions, syllabus and previews.
- Instructor credentials and learner testimonials.
Impact:
- Strongly influences motivation.
- DISCOVERY
Discovery is the process of revealing new information and insights. Online learning platforms often provide interactive elements that facilitate discovery, allowing learners to explore themes beyond the standard curriculum. This fosters curiosity and a deeper connection to the subject matter
Catalyst:
- Learning an interesting fact, a new technique with real-life examples.
- Receiving bonus materials and insights from peers and facilitators.
Impact:
- Emphasize attention and excitement.
- Strengthens intrinsic motivation.
- GUIDANCE
Guidance from facilitators provides support throughout the learning process. Effective guidance includes timely feedback, clarification of concepts, and encouragement, which are vital for maintaining learner motivation and progress
"In learning you will teach, and in teaching you will learn."
— Phil Collins
Catalyst:
- Instructor feedback and community support
- Visual and auditory cues which supports learning.
- REFLECTION
Reflection involves learners scrutinizing their experiences and understanding. In online learning, Introspective methods such as journaling and discussion forums encourage deeper engagement with the materials. This process enhances critical thinking and supports the effective use of knowledge.
Catalyst:
- Prompts to journal and participate in discussions.
- Practical implementation of acquired knowledge.
Impact:
- Deepens understanding and retention.
- Leads to personal or professional insight.
- REFERENCE
References are external resources that support learning. Access to a variety of references, including academic papers, videos, and forums, enriches the learning experience. Proper referencing also aids in developing research skills and academic integrity.
Catalyst:
- Reviewing lectures, notes and supplementary readings.
- Revisiting bookmarked content during projects and practice.
Impact:
- Promotes deeper learning through repeated practise.
- Fosters confidence in applying knowledge.
- TASK COMPLETION
Task completion refers to the learners' ability to finish assignments and activities. Clear instructions, manageable workloads, and appropriate deadlines contribute to successful task completion. Challenges in this area can hinder learning outcomes and student satisfaction
Catalyst:
- Offers progress bars, completion notifications and scores.
- Finishing an interactive exercise and peer-reviewed task.
Impact:
- Provides a sense of structure and momentum.
- Reinforces a sense of progress.
- ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
