Distance Education
Distance education is a method of higher learning that extends instruction to geographically distant students. Once conducted through mail as correspondence courses, distance education these days is primarily the work of online colleges and universities. The shift from the postal service to the Internet is only one of many changes that have occurred in distance learning. Formally a vehicle for earning certification in technical skills, distance education through online schools now offers the full range of diplomas and degrees from elementary schools to doctoral programs.
In recent years, distance education has made another shift, spreading beyond online colleges and universities. Recently, well-respected universities like Penn State University, the State University of New York (SUNY) and Villanova University are offering master’s degree programs in the fields of Engineering, Business Administration, Education, Nursing, and etc. For students who prefer the familiarity of a long-standing traditional college, an online branch of a brick-and-mortar campus offers the freedom of an online degree program without sacrificing name-recognition or comfort zone of a physical campus to turn to for administrative support.
Students who thrive in distance learning are generally self-starters who enjoy working independently. Though distance education online allows for classroom discussions through bulletin boards and may include group work, students are responsible for time-management, organization, and comprehension of materials. Without the safety net of face-to-face meetings, some students may find these responsibilities overwhelming.
Distance learners should expect many of the same services offered by traditional schools and college. An administrative support team including enrollment counselors, academic advisors, and financial aid officers should be readily available and easy to contact whether it be by phone or email. Even for online classes, the faculty to student ratio should be relatively low. Instructors should be personable and should respond with graded materials in a timely manner. Also, instructors who are difficult to contact with questions and requests can hamper the student’s ability to cope with the instructional materials. Quality of support and faculty is of the utmost importance in distance learning.
Distance education from a quality institution is as enriching and challenging as the education provided by traditional schools and colleges. The best way to be sure that an online college is committed to meeting the same standards as brick-and-mortar schools is through its accreditation. Quality online schools and colleges are regionally accredited by one of the six regional accreditation associations recognized by the United States Department of Education.
Distance learners seeking the freedom of a distance education do not need to sacrifice the caliber of their education. Many online schools and colleges have high standards and demand excellence from both their faculty and their students.