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Distance Learning
Distance learning has gained popularity over the last decade particularly since the Internet has technologically advanced in such as way that communication is limitless and the tools available are more than enough to make headway within an educational realm. The busier our schedules get, the more people are turning to distance learning as a way to advance their knowledge and further their skills.
Distance learning includes things like obtaining a degree online, but it delves much deeper than that. There are other programs available for distance learning students which include classroom instruction via the Internet, as well as some courses and degree programs mailing course materials and videos through the mail.
Photo by Unclassifiable Librarian on Flickr, licensed under Creative Commons.
By way of the Internet, professors can teach sometimes as many as a few thousands students at one time from whatever state they reside in. By logging into a virtual classroom, distance learning students have the luxury of interacting not only with their teachers, but can also partake in conversations and learning with the students.
Distance learning also works for some programs via satellite. For instance many top notch schools will essentially "rent out" classrooms at another college and through satellite connection the students in one state can view on a screen or television monitor the teacher who is in another state altogether, as well as the classroom students that they are teaching in their state at the same time.
This is particularly useful because some of these satellite programs allow students to obtain a degree from a specific college but don't have to live in that state to attend the classes and earn the degree. And many of these satellite classes also offer advanced degrees like Master's and Doctorate degrees, which you can't always get in an online training program.
Most of the distance learning programs are extremely flexible which means students have an easier time juggling work, home responsibilities and then doing their school work. It also cuts out the necessity of commuting time, which is one of the top listed obstacles that would be students' record as a reason they can't go back to school in many polls.
With distance learning programs there is still a need to commit to classroom time so that lectures and discussions can happen, but the majority of the school work can be done whenever the student can fit it in among their other responsibilities. The flexibility makes it possible for many to continue their education.
It is particularly beneficial for students who live in rural areas who may not have a college institution near them. For many this is an unfair hindrance and distance learning programs have successfully filled that void.
Is Distance Learning Effective?
Many studies have been and continue to be done regarding whether or not distance learning is effective and should be used as a tool to continue education.