Distance Learning

Distance Learning: since 1858!

Distance learning is a very popular and versatile mode of studying. Read on for an explanation of distance learning and what’s involved.

What is Distance Learning?

Many of us are deterred at the prospect of pursuing higher education study due to time and/or distance limitations. This is when the option of distance learning can assist our situation. It offers students access to high quality learning; delivered to their letterbox, email, or via virtual learning centres. With the use of new media technologies such as the internet, this method of distance learning is also known as online learning.

How long has distance learning been around?

Distance learning has been around for over 150 years. The first course offered via distance learning was in 1858 by the University of London External programme. Following this more institutes from around the world established departments that were dedicated to providing distance learning. With modern technologies, traditional campus-based universities are now offering learning via the Internet. In 2006 the Sloan Consortium (leading researcher of online learning) stated that "more than 96 per cent of the very largest institutions (more than 15,000 total enrolments) have some online offerings". More information about the survey.

How was distance learning traditionally delivered?

• The student receives study materials in the mail (in recent years this might have included CDs/videos)
• They are required to read the relevant materials and perhaps answer questions, take a quiz, complete assignments, exams, etc.
• Correspondence from teachers is via mail, email and telephone.

The downside is that students have limited contact with their teachers and rely more on books and 'teaching themselves', which could be considered less effective than standard classroom-style education.

How is distance learning delivered today?

Today distance learning has moved into online learning where courses are taught predominantly via the Internet by way of sophisticated online learning software. This provides all the functionality of a classroom where you access learning materials, observe lectures, chat with fellow students, ask professors questions and sit exams.

Some universities also allow their students to view lectures on their iPods. See: One step closer to the mainstream for eLearning.

How has online learning impacted on distance learning?

Online learning has meant that there is a fast, convenient and inexpensive channel of communication between the student and teacher as well as between students themselves. Students can chat, discuss and build relationships with each other online. They can also discuss topics with their teacher. For example students can view lectures online and then discuss them in a forum. To sample online lectures, go to the Academic Earth site that offers free lectures from top universities.

What benefits does distance learning offer?

• The chance to study a subject that you might not be able to otherwise due to time constraints or limited access to the campus. For many students it’s the most convenient study option.
• Study at your own pace: a lot of universities allow you to complete the programme at a pace that suits you – an added bonus for those leading busy lives.
• As mentioned with online delivery, the effectiveness of the learning experience has been enhanced and offers some advantages over face-to-face learning. See online learning for more information.

What does distance learning offer the world?

It provides an opportunity for every single person on the planet to become better educated. As we know, education is essential for a number of reasons: it empowers people, it enables societies and communities to advance at a faster rate, it improves job prospects and provides the potential to earn more.