What is Distance Learning?

Definition of Distance Learning



Knowing what is Distance Learning proves to be extremely fruitful for those individuals who are anxious to learn & enhance their academic standing but are caught deep in the hustle bustle & responsibilities of daily life.



Distance learning can be defined as,



"A mode of education, usually college or university level academics, that allows students to work at from home or work at their own pace while keeping in touch with the instructor via video conferencing, chat applications, discussion forums, email and instant messaging".



Distance learning programs typically include online writing courses, language learning, and online degree programs.

Types of Distance Learning Programs



Knowing how does distance learning work & the various options that it offers enable students to choose the alternative which best fits their needs, routine & lifestyle.

Levels in Distance Learning Education



Distance learning schools

Distance learning colleges

Distance learning summer programs



Types of Online Courses



Diplomas

Certificates

Coursework



Mediums of Instruction and Education

Virtual Classrooms



As the name suggests in itself, a virtual classroom environment is created through the implementation of CBT (Computer-Based Training). These virtual classrooms allow fellow students to interact with each other through online chat, instant messaging or leave messages for one another to follow-up on discussion forums

Televised Courses Through Online Lectures



A lesser interactive mode is lectures that are delivered through the television. These lectures can be either delivered live or be pre-recorded. Video copies of the lecture are usually available at the college/university library for future referencing.

Online Documents (Word, Excel, PDF, PPT)



In some cases, students who sign-up for distance learning courses are provided with a course outline. The outline (usually) has an online link written on it which leads to a web portal. The student signs-in and is able to access documents in either .doc (MS Word) or .pdf (Adobe) formats for their reading. In addition to online documents, a list of prescribed reading material is also provided to students at the time of registration. The outline also mentions quiz, assignment & examination dates.



With both the last 2 examples of distance learning, students must pace & plan their daily study schedule by themselves as (normally) no instructor is instantly available for coaching.

Difference Between Distance Learning and Traditional Learning



Contrary to the mode of traditional learning, distance learning education calls for enhanced commitment and dedication at the end of course enrollers and students.



Individuals who are self organized and good time managers can benefit the most out of such programs as the medium primarily relies on self regulation and responsibility.



Benefits for the Programs Organizers & Institutes

Additional Credibility



At a commercial level, institutions benefit both in monetary terms & with regards to winning favorable reputations/goodwill from the populace.

Cost Effectiveness



It reduces and (at times) eliminates the need for a physical structure to be constructed; this, reducing the fixed expense cost factor.



It makes studying cost effective for the students as well since they don’t need to spend resources such as time while stuck in traffic jams and money either on fuel (if they have their own vehicle) or on purchasing tickets (in case they make use of a public transportation facility).



Ozzy Mirza has contributed this article. Visit www.learnalearning.com to learn more about distance learning.