Where to Teach, pt. VII – Distance Learning (Skype Lessons)

     This month I’ll be continuing the series of posts entitled “Where to Teach” by discussing distance learning. If you are unfamiliar with the terms “distance learning” or “distance education” they refer to online education for students who are not physically present. In the area of instrumental lessons they are more commonly referred to as “Skype Lessons”.

     Many guitar teachers today seem to be utilizing distance learning for a variety of reasons, but like everything else there are always pros and cons – let’s take a look.

PROS

· Travel: The teacher does not need to travel to a store or student’s home – they can teach from a location of their choosing.

· Time: Lessons can be scheduled for any time which is convenient for both teacher and student – late evening, early morning, etc.

· Make-up: If a student has a 24hr bug or can’t make their normally scheduled day/time, you can Skype the lesson when it is more convenient and not wait an entire week for the next lesson.

· Student Performance: According to one study, student’s performance “increased more than 22%” (keep in mind the sample size of the study was a total of 3 students, so it is hardly definitive research).

· Less Off-Task Behavior: The same study also found that distance learners exhibited less off-task behaviors. Whereas, “off-task behaviors comprised 36% more time during face-to-face lessons”.

· Increased Eye Contact: Once again, the same study found an increase in eye contact during distance lessons.

CONS

· Technology: Distance learning requires a degree of comfort-ability with technology, so if technology is not your strong suit you may want to rethink this online platform.

· Internet Connection: Connections can drop mid-lesson and cause minor disruptions.

· Sound: The quality of the distance learning is definitely not “first person”, so be prepared for a less than pristine sound.

· Notes: You will not be able to make notations in a student’s music, write in their notebooks or make written corrections; the student will need to do all the notetaking.

· Hand/Body Adjustments: Since you are not physically present you will be unable to adjust hands, fingers, arms or elbows.

· Limited Point of View: Your point of view on a student is limited to the current camera view; no watching hand movements from different angles.

· Time Lag: Because of a time lag you will be unable to accompany students or perform duets with them.

I’d enjoy hearing your thoughts on distance learning – what has been your experience? Feel free to comment.