Description
The course Educational Technology in Distance Education (TPEN4311) introduces learners to the principles, concepts, and practical applications of educational technology within distance education settings. As higher education increasingly integrates digital tools and online delivery, this course helps participants develop a critical understanding of how technology supports, enhances, and transforms learning across diverse contexts.
Through five structured self-paced sessions, the course provides both theoretical foundations and hands-on exploration. Learners will begin by examining the evolution and key characteristics of educational technology and distance education. They will then explore the rationale behind distance education, identifying its driving forces and implementation challenges. The course continues with a discussion of how technological systems, learning materials, and management processes function within distance education environments. Learners will also analyze real-world applications, comparing various delivery systems and models used globally.
The final session focuses on instructional design and assessment for distance learning, enabling learners to plan and evaluate effective learning experiences. Each session includes readings, interactive forums, and formative quizzes that encourage reflection and collaboration.
By the end of the course, participants will be able to design and evaluate educational strategies that leverage technology for accessible, flexible, and high-quality distance learning. The course is ideal for educators, instructional designers, and professionals aiming to innovate within digital and open learning environments.
Objective:
Upon successful completion of this course, the learner will be able to analyze the core principles of Educational Technology and describe their application within Distance Education, from its historical origins to contemporary practices, given the provided reading materials, presentations, case studies, and tutorial tasks within the five sessions, by accurately identifying key theoretical concepts and systematically designing a basic distance learning plan that incorporates appropriate technologies and assessment methods.
Course Topics:
Educational Technology in Distance Education (TPEN4311)
This course is divided into five progressive sessions that explore the principles, practices, and applications of Educational Technology in Distance Education.
Foundational Concepts of Educational Technology and Distance Education
The “Why” and “How” of Distance Education Practices
The Function of Educational Technology in Distance Education
Applying Educational Technology to Solve Distance Education Challenges
Instructional Design and Assessment in Distance Education
Course Developers
Dr. Ahmad Syaikhu, M.Pd.
Dr. Ahmad Syaikhu serves as the lead course developer and content specialist for this course. With extensive experience in educational technology and instructional design, he has contributed to numerous projects at Universitas Terbuka focusing on digital learning transformation and open education innovation. His academic interests center on the integration of technology in distance education, learning analytics, and professional development for educators. In this course, he provides the theoretical and practical framework that connects educational technology principles with real-world distance learning applications.
Dra. Marisa, M.Pd.
Dra. Marisa is a co-developer and instructional design specialist who brings a deep understanding of curriculum development and online pedagogy. She has played a pivotal role in designing learner-centered activities and ensuring that course materials align with Universitas Terbuka’s open and flexible learning philosophy. Her contributions emphasize interactive learning design, assessment integration, and student engagement strategies, ensuring that the course supports both academic rigor and accessibility for diverse learners.
Edy Syarif, M.Pd.
Edy Syarif is a co-developer and media integration specialist responsible for translating pedagogical concepts into engaging digital learning experiences. With expertise in educational media production and multimedia learning design, he ensures that each module effectively combines text, visuals, and interactivity to enhance comprehension and motivation. His work bridges technology and creativity, ensuring that this course embodies Universitas Terbuka’s commitment to high-quality, technology-enhanced distance education.
