Phillip Presley

Distance Learning Education: a Non-Traditional Way to Study

Distance learning is getting increasingly popular. This is made possible by the use of remote access tools.

Distance learning education is described as a process to create and provide via Remote Connection, resources to learning materials and tutors. It is a non-traditional form of learning because the students are separated, usually by distance and therefore not in a classroom setting.

This form of learning dates back to the seventeenth century when shorthand had just been invented. In those days the only method of delivering lessons was through the postal services. Now known as the University of London International Programmes, this university was the first university to offer distance learning courses. After exhausting the use of postal services, radio and television were used to broadcasts lessons to students.

Fortunately, communications technology such as Remote Computer has made the distribution of lessons far more convenient, user-friendly and faster. These virtual universities offer degree programs, diploma and certificate courses for individuals who cannot make it into the classroom. Therefore a growing number of universities, physical and online, have begun to offer their programs through the Internet. In addition to offering various disciplines of studies, these educational institutions allow student support services, registration, and library services online to existing and potential students using two methods of technology.

Asynchronous and synchronous learning are the two types of technology available for distance learning. Asynchronous learning method of delivery allows the student to learn sent to them via the post. Synchronous learning on the other hand, delivers the content while all students are present at the same time. Similar to a classroom setting except that the students are located remotely. This is achieved through web or video conferencing, instructional television, satellite, live streaming, and VOIP. These two methods are sometimes combined to increase the effectiveness of the delivery.

Those who are benefitted from such arrangements can attest to the fact that it allows them more flexibility in terms of home responsibilities and job issues. Sometimes the courses that are offered are in a geographical location that is far away from home or work.

Many educational institutions that started out as a traditional classroom and student, have changed their method of delivery and have joined the long list of institutions offering distance learning education because of the benefits.

·Institutions that are physically small can enroll more students online and can even conduct off-site training. 

·Distance learning can aid, with the use of Remote Desktop, the great demand for training needed in businesses, particularly because the learning sessions can be time tabled to suit the students or participants need.

·Since the advent of distance learning, those that are classroom shy or beyond the typical school age can obtain a degree or become certified in an area of their choice.

·Single parents who knows what it is like to make ends meet and cannot afford a babysitter, can benefit from studying at their own pace to qualify themselves for a better income earning job.

Read more: Accessing the Cloud Remotely

Article Tags: Distance Learning

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