What is Distance Learning

What is Distance learning?
In the last couple of years, distance education has gained immense popularity amongst colleges and
students likewise. It’s through distance learning that colleges could proliferate their study programs and
students could study them while at the click of the mouse. Teachers from all levels now are using
distance learning to expand the horizons of their professions through working in collaboration with
students on projects and degree programs.
So how do we define distance learning? It occurs when there are geographical or time zone barriers
between a teacher and a learner sufficient enough to prevent the learner from face to face interaction
with the teacher or from attending a full time college. Electronic means are now used to abet this
process of learning through exchange of emails and videos. These interactions are done keeping in mind
the nature and complexity of the process which doesn’t require attention in typical classroom teaching.
Majorly, distance learning is done using the internet which could be found in homes and libraries and is
an easy approach for students. Teachers and students communicate regularly exchanging learning
material and documents. Distance learning could use other means as well like television, DVDs and
printed material but the feasibility and effectiveness of the internet gives it the top priority. Online
programs use effective and faster ways of communication which assist students in completing lessons
and exchanging ideas over the internet with fellow companions though emails and videos. Likewise
several forums and discussion boards are readily available to assist students twenty four hours a day.
Students committed to work and family matters usually find ease in completing degrees through
distance learning. The class hours are flexible and can be changed according to the needs and comfort of
the student allowing him to complete his other activities as well unlike conventional strict classroom
teaching. A challenge emerging here is the responsibility and independency on the students end as he
has no constant guidance and consent available. This gets tougher if students aren’t self-motivated.
Imparting education has now been made very easy, thanks to distance learning. It’s a great opportunity
for students living in remote areas where education is not easily accessible or for those seeking higher
opportunities. Not only schools but also several businesses have used distance learning to their
advantage in disseminating employee education and training thus lessening their dependency on other
sources and becoming self-sufficient.