Distance Learning and on Job Training From a Messenger Pigeon to Implanted Brain Microchips Interface and Metaverse

Abstract

Transportation and transferring data and information around the globe have remarkably developed and revolutionized! It is possible to transfer data and information in a small part of a second (milliseconds) or in a real time. This technology is not only written texts but expanded to include visual material, virtual reality, visual and sound interactions. Such a great development definitely has and will continue to have an impact on shaping the methods of distance learning. Distance learning is no longer luxury, it becomes the heart of the education process and career development. There are several needs and objectives for distance learning to flourish the distance learning, education, and training in the near future. The COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated the need to develop professional, efficient safe, secure, and reliable methods of distance education, learning, and telemedicine.

These emerged technologies of communication and transferring information provoked several serious ethical considerations The developing and advancing distance learning and on job training and professional assessment should be based on ethics and values (Values-Based Medical Education). Telemedicine and telesurgery which have great advantages and benefits are facing serious ethical and practical challenges too, which is going to be discussed in this chapter.

The great future challenges are not the materials to be transferred but the methods of transferring these materials. The ways of transferring information are greatly varied from internet, computer-based programs, mobile application, and possibly by stimulating certain neural cells through implanted microchips. The emerging metaverse as a virtual augmented reality which is going to create unlimited applications may advance the distance education and on job training beyond any imagination.