How Does Distance Learning Work?

What Is Distance Learning?

Distance learning is an increasingly popular method of gaining higher education with degrees available online ranging from certifications to doctoral degrees. Distance learning involves taking classes from a college or university from the comfort of your home. The college may be in the same town or could be on the other side of the world. Distance learning is great for adults who work during the day, or for parents that cannot attend traditional classes.

Getting Started

Distance learning opportunities are everywhere, which makes finding a program that is interesting to you quite easy. A quick search online will reveal a host of universities and colleges that offer degree programs through distance learning. Most colleges will require that you go through the typical admissions process involving submitting the application, the application fee, high school transcripts and college transcripts.

Methods

There are two main methods for taking distance education classes: online and by mail. Online classes involve logging on daily to a program, such as Blackboard or WebCT, to access assignments, class discussions and lecture notes. All assignments are usually submitted online.
Mail distance education classes involve communicating with your instructor through the postal service. This method usually comes with an additional fee for the printed materials, as well as a need to watch postage handling times to meet the proper deadlines for your classes.

Books

Your books for distance learning may come in two different ways. Some distance learning classes have the full textbook available online. However, most distance learning classes still use printed textbooks to go with their classes. Textbooks may be ordered online through sites such as Amazon.com, or they can be ordered and purchased through your school's bookstore and sent to your home.

Testing

Testing can also come in two forms. Some classes allow you to take the tests online, while others require you to find a proctor testing center. With online tests you may be able to use your book, but you may also be required to go by an honor system stating that you will not use a book during your test. This is why proctoring centers are becoming more popular with online learning classes as the teacher can assure that you will not be able to cheat. Also, some tests may be timed, while other may give you an unlimited amount of time to finish.

Costs

Distance learning classes can range anywhere from $50 per credit hour to $1,000 per credit hour. Many schools will simply charge the same per credit cost as their on campus classes. However, expect that you will pay an additional distance learning fee for technology costs.

Resources

• Online Distance Learning Search