Based on my previous post, I've created a mind map that helps to illustrate the key ideas. As you can see, my former definition of distance learning was quite simple-learning conducted outside of a classroom. It could be technology based, and quite often is technology based for delivery. And finally, there may or may not be some matter of interaction via an instructor or peers.

My post, or new definition is a little more extensive. Distance learning must be a two way process that is both collaborative and holds the learner accountable to a certain standard or completion of the tasks required to master the concepts. Finally, it should be responsive to the learner. This extends to learner accessibility as well. Learning should be adaptive based on the learner's needs and requirements to be successful.

I am sure this mind map will grow an additional arm in terms of evolving definition as the weeks move forward in this course. The resources this week have only begun to introduce the scope of distance learning as it exists today.