| Summary: Distance learning, also called distance education, offers courses at a location convenient for the student. Distance learning programs may be connected to traditional schools of learning or they may be independently operated schools with very specific course offerings for a certain student population. |
The term distance learning (or distance education) is a global descriptor for a vast set of educational options that involve the completion of academic course work at a location other than an actual school campus.
The traditional form of higher education involves students meeting at a specific location, at prearranged times, to receive instruction from a teacher or professor. Though this format works well for people willing to commit to school full time, especially those in their late teens or early twenties, it does not suit the adult population that has begun some form of career well at all.
Once working full time, it is difficult for adults to block out the specific time from an already busy schedule for a course may be offered only at a specific time. Furthermore, the working adult is committed to a location that is specifically tied to their job and their physical residence. Often times, the location of a course needed for educational advancement is not located close enough to work or home, adding further complications and inconveniences for the student.
Distance learning refers to the ability to take courses at a location convenient for the student, not necessarily for the teacher. The most ideal form, of course, includes the opportunity to take a class at home or work. Distance learning also seldom has specified time constraints - instead the student is free to work on their studies when it is convenient for the student. The designated completion time period is generally open as well, meaning the student can go at his or her own pace instead of that of previously scheduled class. This format permits students to both finish a course more quickly if that fits the students’ desire or to finish a course more slowly if that fits their needs better.
Distance learning programs may be connected to traditional schools of learning or they may be independently operated schools with very specific course offerings for a certain student population. Adding to the flexibility of this learning format is that there are various forms of distance learning including online internet classes and correspondence classes that are available through the mail.
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