Definition of Distance Learning
Distance learning (also known as "distance education") is a popular way to obtain a high school GED or a college education online. Students who are of pre-kindergarten age through grade 12 also use distance learning to get their schooling. Usually all you need is a computer with Internet access to further your education. It doesn't matter what your location is. You can sign up at any college across the United States that offers distance learning.
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Things You'll Need
- Computer with Internet access
- Workbooks and/or other printed materials
- E-mail access
- Web conferencing or video conferencing capabilities
Instructions
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Realize that distance learning is usually done by using a computer and an Internet connection. You may also need to use printed materials that you receive by e-mail, fax or standard mail. You'll basically use the school's website to communicate back-and-forth with an instructor as you take each course.
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Get educated through distance learning by taking part in class discussions, hearing lectures and maybe even watching and listening to television and radio broadcasts.
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Complete your high school education by taking the required distance learning classes, passing the tests and earning a GED. You can then get your education online and study a specific area such as computer programming, data entry, creative writing or locksmithing. Taking one or more of these shortened programs can get you a certificate.
You can sign-up and take additional distance learning classes to earn an Associate's degree and find employment in that field. If you wish, you can use/transfer your college credits and go on to earn a Bachelor's degree.
You can even use a distance learning program to earn a Master's degree or a doctorate.
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Home school your children with the help of a distance learning school. Your students can study online to learn certain subjects, while you teach them the balance of their curriculum. Or, your children can take all their classes online.
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Check out several colleges, such as Kaplan University, Capella University, Florida Community College, the University of Phoenix Online and Liberty University, to find out information about their distance learning programs. Find online and continuing education programs online (see Resources below) by visiting Petersons.com. You can also contact the United States Distance Learning Association (USDL). (See Resources below) for assistance.
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Save tuition money by taking part in distance learning classes. Distance learning is less expensive that attending a brick and mortar college mainly because online schools have less overhead.
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Tips & Warnings
Distance learning is considered to be a "greener" approach to higher education because it doesn't require as many resources, such as gasoline, oil and paper, as traditional colleges do.
Be cautious when you choose a distance learning program so you don't get scammed. Check with the Better Business Bureau before you sign up with a particular program. Even though distance learning has many advantages, this technological way of learning has its pitfalls too. Students who participate in distance learning tend to feel isolated because they're not in a classroom setting. Because you use your computer and the Internet--and possibly even more technology--to communicate with your instructor, you may incur costs buying the equipment you need to participate. Distance learning doesn't offer all possible courses. To get your degree, you may have to complete your education by attending classes in a brick and mortar college.
