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Distance Learning may sound "bizarre"
and may even be an unfamiliar terrain especially to those students
whose mental picture of a college is a campus with dormitories,
athletic facilities and a dusty old library.
Nevertheless based on the study released by the U.S. Department
of Education about 2.9 million students’ enrolled college-
level distance education courses in the school year 2000-2001.
Distance or Online Education is simply defined as an alternative
way of learning which allows students to choose when and where
they want to study. So, instead of attending conventional classes
on a campus, students access their courses at their convenience
and even at the comforts of their own home. Students may access
their courses on one or more delivery formats which include
the Internet, CD-Rom, print based materials, audio/video feeds,
teleconferencing or audio conferencing. With the latest innovations
in computer technology most formats are delivered through satellite
uplink, computer conferencing and collaboration as well as interactive
two-way multi-point video conferencing.
During the last few years, the popularity of Distance Learning
has reached new heights. With the worldwide boom in technology,
online learning has become a first-rate option for local students
who are trying to wedge an undergraduate or graduate degree
in their lives, and for international students seeking a top-quality
degree. Together with the technological advancement the quality
of distance education has greatly improved as students and educators
alike become comfortable with technology. As the stories of
best practices is shared and spread, the popularity of distance
education continue to increase.
Online learning offer students several advantages
including accessibility to students with restricted mobility
or with family responsibilities, and the flexibility of studying
in any convenient location and time schedules.
Today there are a lot of programs to choose from and in order
to choose a suitable program there are three crucial factors
to consider: Student-Centered Support, Community Development,
and Content. Before enrolling in a program make sure that the
program provides vital student resources, such as a resource
center and library, trained instructors who are experts in their
subject matter, tutoring services, academic advisors, effective
delivery of materials, and ease of use.
Another factor to be considered is online development. Online
education, thrives on community and due to online revolution,
it is no longer an isolated endeavor. Through community students
will be able to communicate with other students and instructors
all over the world, often in real time.
The last and perhaps the most important factor to be taken
into consideration before enrolling in a program is the content
itself. Try to examine the content of the programs that interest
you, by reading the curriculum and class notes. Then evaluate
which program you believe will give you the ability to learn
in the most effective.
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