| Summary: Many hear “Distance Learning” and have an assortment of ideas as to what that means; but what is distance learning? Does it mean studying abroad? Is it a new-fangled way to get your degree via the Internet? |
Many hear “Distance Learning” and have an assortment of ideas as to what that means; but what is distance learning? Does it mean studying abroad? Is it a new-fangled way to get your degree via the Internet? Many would be surprised to know that distance learning, a means to learn without having to be physically present at the learning institution 100% of the time (or at all), dates all the way back to the 1700s. Teachers of short hand, a method of quickly taking notes via symbols and abbreviations, began sending student lessons via messenger and distance learning was born.
With the advent of the postal service, distance learning quickly gained steam and universities in both the UK and the US quickly began offering distance learning options for some of their courses. As communication technology increased, so did the options available to enhance distance learning courses. Audio and video conferencing became popular, as well as faxing of course material.
Now that internet access has found its way into the homes of so many people, access to university classes and degrees is at your finger tips. Unfortunately, this technology has also given way to a slew of scam schools and “diploma mills”, who offer quick degree programs at hefty fees. Often these degrees are not legitimate, and the schools are not accredited. When considering any online learning institution for your distance learning needs, make sure that they are accredited by The Distance Education and Training Council (DETC), so that you can feel confident that you are getting the best education for your money and time.
DETC is a non-profit association, founded in 1926, that was created to ensure that there were a strong set of standards and practices within the field of distance learning. in 1955 they received approval from the U.S. Department of Education as a nationally recognized accrediting agency. With the rise in diploma mills in recent years, they have had to be on top of this issue and have posted an extensive online list of institutions that are accredited through their accreditation program. Another benefit to ensuring that you enroll with a fully-accredited learning institution is that once a school has received that accreditation, they are eligible to offer their students a wide range of financial aid options. If the school you are considering is not accredited and does not offer financial aid for steep tuition fees, it may be time to look at other options.
Another thing to consider when looking at distance learning options is which learning format will best suit you and your lifestyle. There are two common formats of distance learning available to you: synchronous learning and asynchronous learning. Synchronous learning is a bit more stringent on the schedule in that students are required to be available at the same time, via whichever communication tool that your instructor has designated. This may include a conference call, a live-streaming class, or a chat room. If your school is using telecourses, where lectures are streamed on a local television channel, then that will require your needing to tune in to lectures at a certain time. The benefits of this style of learning is that you will find that you have more communication opportunities with other classmates, and often more dialogue with the instructor. The downside of this option is that fixed class times may not work for those with demanding careers, or family obligations.
Asynchronous learning is where the students are able to learn at their own pace and not have to “be” a certain place (such as in front of the computer) at a certain time. They will instead use coursework that has been mailed or emailed to them, as well as learn course material through tools such as pre-recorded lectures, on their own time. This offers more flexibility, but less opportunity to easily access classmates and instructors if the need for questions or feedback arises.
Distance learning is an excellent opportunity to obtain your degree, or enhance your career, without needing to adhere to a strict schedule or go to a classroom. Just a little time and motivation can get you on the right track to a new future.
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