Telepresence

Telepresence is the ability to communicate with others from a distance according to Marvin Minsky. Like any new technology, it has pros and cons. With this, educators are able to reach a wider and more diverse population, but it has a sort of disconnect between classmates that leaves some unsatisfied. It can provide a new way of communicating that is more comfortable and efficient. It also makes the user more proficient in using technology. I can see where learning would be enhanced by telepresence, but I am a little old-fashioned and still enjoy face to face interactions with my professors. The article indicated that there was less overall satisfaction and sense of community. I believe we learn as individuals, but we are taught as a group. This can cause some people to be dissatisfied with learning in an environment that is non-traditional. These finding make sense since building community is the most obvious flaw in the technology.