Distance Education 411 | What is Distance Learning?

Distance learning is an education environment in which the student is separated from the teacher, and it's a kind of learning that's becoming more common with each passing day.

When most people these days think of distance learning, they usually think of coursework that's taught via online teaching and learning. While this is a correct description, it's surely not the only means. It also takes place via mail, via TV (community cable and public broadcasting channels), via audio and video conferencing and via satellite.

The kind of tools necessary for distance education courses depends on the method being used and to some level, class (or school) specifics. Pretty much, distance education online deems it necessary that students have access to high speed internet for online computer learning. Some online education courses demand that a student's computer be able to manage audio and picture files (which shouldn't really be a problem for anyone with a computer these days, unless you're still running a 486!). As with traditional learning, students probably will require word processing and perhaps specialized online education software. But again, as with traditional education, each class will have its own requirements.

Who benefits from distance learning?

Anyone who is interested in furthering his or her knowledge can profit from distance learning programs. Distance education degree programs are especially prevalent with individuals who are occupied juggling a family and a full-time job because it enables students to participate when it fits into their schedules, instead of the other way around. It benefits those who can't or would sooner not move nearer to campus. Older individuals regularly favor this form of distance education learning because they're not comfortable being mixed in with a campus filled with young adults.

Anybody can take distance learning courses provided they meet the eligibility requirements. There typically are expenses involved just like regular learning programs, but prospective students will find that there usually are numerous resources existing to help with the expenses such as an online distance education loan or economic aid.

Who doesn't benefit from distance learning?

Believe it or not, there are some students for whom distance education programs just don't work. Because all the learning takes place 'outside' a classroom location, students must be able to take initiative and be disciplined. Online learning, for instance, won't force students to 'attend class' Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. but students will have assignments to finish and tests to take nonetheless. They're in complete charge of their own schedules and even how much they ultimately learn. This kind of liberty just doesn't work for some, especially those who like to put tasks off until the last possible instant.

There won't be much (if any) back and forth interaction between student and teacher or among students. Those who want this kind of interaction in order to help absorb new material typically won't benefit from distance education classes. And then there's the entire social facet of school that's missing. Those who go to school to learn but also want to be part of a social scene perhaps should shun this sort of education.

What is Distance Education?

What is Distance Learning?

Who benefits from distance learning?

Who doesn't benefit from distance learning?