Thursday, February 14, 2008

DISTANCE EDUCATION

DISTANCE EDUCATION

Distance education has afforded generations of students the opportunity pursue their educational goals outside of the traditional school system It has allowed countless students the ability to further their education while allowing them to maintain their obligations to their families and employers While distance education is not for everyone it has certainly stood the test of time With the advent of the personal computer and the development of the internet distance education has evolved into an extremely important element of modern education Most every university in North America offers courses online while an entire cottage industry has formed around the concept of online education There are countless online courses available to members of the general public The wonderful thing about online education is that there are no borders and prospective students worldwide now have access to the same opportunities Online learning has the ability to make the world a better place. Distance learning is a course or program completed remotely from the school or university which offers the educational opportunity. E-learning, online learning, and distance education are other terms used for distance learning.
Most distance learning now occurs online, which requires that a student simply have access to a computer and the Internet. However, distance learning is a broad term which also describes coursework completed through the mail, as in the more traditional form of correspondence courses. Independent institutions, as well as traditional schools and universities, offer distance education. Some distance learning programs offer degrees, in addition to other educational certifications.
In addition to a computer and Internet access, a person enrolled in a distance education program might need computer software, such as an anti-virus, word processing, or spreadsheet program. Each individual program can provide the specific technology requirements for its courses. Distance education programs frequently charge tuition based on the number of courses, or credits, taken. By saving on commuting or relocation costs, distance learning can be an economical alternative.
Distance learning is attractive for several reasons, including convenience, flexibility, and pace. It is convenient because you can study when and where you want. For students who work or have families, the flexibility to schedule classes around such obligations is important.
Other students like the ability to work at one's own pace. For example, a distance learning student can complete assignments quickly, or work ahead on a subject that is easy for him or her. Likewise, a student can spend additional time on assignments that are difficult. Distance learning can also provide the opportunity to attain educational goals that can result in a promotion, salary increase, or entry into a new career.
One disadvantage of distance learning is the lack of social interaction. When students take courses through this method, they may miss out on classroom discussions and individualized instruction. However, many distance learning courses use chat rooms and bulletin boards to mimic a more traditional type of interactive and social learning environment.
When choosing a distance education program, evaluate the course content and the institution's accreditation. You might also want to consider costs, course methods, and the amount of student-teacher communication. Most online courses incorporate email and online discussion opportunities. When weighing costs, consider tuition, fees, and books, in addition to the cost of a computer, Internet service, and any other equipment needed.Distance Learning requires a certain amount of commitment as the student must schedule the time to study This is also reflective in their work as they are not going to afford the time unless genuinely interested in the subject matter Distance learning has special challenges You will probably never see or meet the teacher You wont have classmates You dont have a campus full of people studying the same thing But you can succeed Plan on it Follow the simple tips below and youll do better in your learning They may seem pretty basic but theyll help keep you focused and on track

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