How Does Distance Education Work?

How Does Distance Education Work?

As compared to traditional classroom-based education, distance education is very different. Through distance education, a student is provided with the possibility of virtually attending classes and completing courses. The student is not required to leave the comfort of his home or to work on fixed schedules in order to earn a degree. This situation is specifically convenient for people who work or who live far from educational institutions. They can access the information from anywhere, submit assignments from any place and even take their exams at locations which are chosen specifically for their convenience.

Delivery Methods

Distance education courses are delivered online. However, the means by which the information is delivered plays a great role in the success of the student and has a direct impact of the student performance. Hence, a variety of technologies need to be employed in delivering the materials for distance courses. The use of multi-media is inevitable. Video tutorials are made so as to imitate the teaching as it occurs in a traditional classroom. Online activities are designed where students can take tests and tutorials, posts and share on forums and discuss with the teachers. In some cases, print materials or CDs are sent to the student. More recently, audio/video conferences have gained popularity. All in all, the bottom line is that the student absolutely needs a reliable Internet connection and a computer or laptop.

Benefits of Distance Education

Distance education allows the student to have the upper hand on his studies and his schedules. The student is free to sort out his priorities and tailor his course according to his commitments. There are two aspects of such an education which attract more and more students every year.

  1. Accessibility

Even if you are located very far from the nearest educational institution in your country, you can still earn a degree. The same education that you would have enjoyed at a university is brought to you through distance learning. For travel enthusiasts, distance education provides the perfect answer to their dilemmas. You can be travelling the world and studying at the same time.

  1. Flexibility

The class literally starts when you want. You get to choose when you wish to access your university account and log in to review your course materials. If a particular time is inconvenient for you, all you have to do is wait till the right time. It is as simple as that. You can also lie in bed, get comfortable in your couch and be watching your favorite series while ‘attending’ a class.

How to Stay On Track?

One major disadvantage of distance education is that students often tend to take it too lightly until they reach a point when they realize they have not done any of the required work and are in no position to take the exams. To avoid this situation, you first need to gather and organize all the materials you require to embark on your distance education journey. It is also advisable to have a schedule for your study.

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