Distance learning

Distance learning enables the students to complete their coursework anywhere without any restriction of attending the classes physically. The only requirement of distance learning is to have a computer and a good internet connection. Distance learning facilitates the students to study wherever and whenever it is convenient for them.

With the passage of time, the distance learning gained popularity as it increases the accessibility of learning opportunities:

•          Students who are not able to attend the classes on daily basis.


•          Students having some financial problems.


•          Students having slow learning problems.

Types of Distance Learning:

There are different types of distance learning:

 

1. Synchronous distance learning: Synchronous distance learning is the most important type of distance learning. It involves direct interaction with the instructor and student in real time through video conferencing or chatting online. Students that are enrolled in synchronous distance learning courses are required to log in to their student account on a time set by their professor at least once a week.

 

2. Asynchronous distance learning: Asynchronous distance learning is opposite of synchronous distance learning. In asynchronous distance learning, the instructor provides the students with lectures, tests, and assignments online that can be accessed anytime. Students will have more communication with their fellow students and they communicate through online discussion boards. Asynchronous learning might be difficult for the students at times because the information received is only through text medium. However, in few cases, there is also an option available for video or audio classes.

 

3. Hybrid Distance Learning: Hybrid distance learning is a combination of synchronous and asynchronous distance learning. In hybrid distance learning, the students are required to be available at a fixed time in the internet classroom. However, students are allowed to complete their assignments at their own ease and submit them later online.

 

4. Computer-Based Distance Learning:In computer-based distance learning, students are required to join the classroom at a fixed time through a computer.

 

            The advantage of Distance Learning:                                               

 

There are many advantages of distance learning. Some are as follows:

• Flexibility: Distance learning allows students to complete their coursework from anywhere, and at any time that is convenient for them.

• Convenient: Distance learning can be one way to cut down the costly gas or the public transportation as students are able to work from home in order to complete their assignments. Time, as well as money, are saved in cutting out the trips to and from class.

• Many options for students: If a student lives in an area where there are few or no colleges then the distance learning assists them to choose from a wide range of schools to complete the education.

• Lowered costs: Distance learning courses are usually cheaper than the on-campus learning as the students don’t have to worry about commuting, moving, and getting meal plans on campus.

• Learn and working together: As distance learning programs are usually completed on the students’ own schedule so it is much easier to complete distance learning programs while working as compared to the traditional educational programs.

                          The Disadvantage of Distance Learning:

 

• Lack of social interaction:  As distance learning program is totally computer based program so there will be lack of social interaction. Students will not be able to meet their fellow students and also the instructor as they are able to meet in on-campus learning programs.

• Distance Learning Degrees are less acceptable: Some of the employees do not accept the distance learning program degrees. They rather prefer those candidates who take on-campus classes.

•  Only a few courses are offered: In distance learning, not all the courses required to complete a degree are offered. Like the nursing isn’t offered entirely online, after all, parts of the degree are to work directly with the patients.