This book presents a vision for the future of education where the classroom experience transcends physical space and time while maintaining effective learning. It explores a model that allows students to benefit from traditional classroom interactions even if they cannot be physically present or learn at the same time. The authors, experts in online learning, propose a distributed classroom that preserves social learning without requiring extensive resources. This concept extends beyond the hybrid learning models popular during the pandemic and the earlier trend of MOOCs, aiming to fundamentally reimagine the classroom experience. David Joyner and Charles Isbell from Georgia Tech discuss how advancements in distance learning and learning management systems have set the stage for this innovative approach. They challenge the binary view of online versus traditional education, arguing that online learning can be equally effective. The book outlines various delivery modes for in-person, remote synchronous, and remote asynchronous students, emphasizing a symmetry of experiences that allows both students and teachers to transition seamlessly between modes. With an optimistic, learner-centric perspective, the authors envision a future where education is accessible to everyone, breaking down barriers of cost, geography, and timing, transforming every individual into a potential learner.
