Friday, October 22, 2010

Why Do I Go For Distance Education?



Distance learning applications in higher education and industry are growing at a rapid pace. It is now possible to obtain a college degree without physically attending a traditional class. Likewise, numerous companies are using distance learning technologies to distribute training courses to employees on a worldwide basis.
Although distance learning in education is not as prevalent as it is in the adult world, there are many forms of distance learning that are becoming increasingly common in schools throughout the world. In fact, "Online learning - for students and for teachers - is one of the fastest growing trends in educational uses of technology"
    Distance learning technologies offer a myriad of benefits that includes convenience, flexibility,effectiveness, and efficiency.
  • Convenience:- Distance learning technologies can provide convenient locations for both students and instructors. Many of the technologies, such as the Internet and telephone, videoconferencing are easily accessed at home.
  • Flexibility:- Many forms of distance learning provide students the option to participate whenever they wish, on an individualized basis. 
  • Effectiveness: - Not only is distance learning convenient, it is also effective. Several research studies have found that distance learning is equally or more effective than traditional instruction when the method and technologies used are appropriate to the instructional tasks, when there is student-to-student interaction and when there is timely teacher-to-student feedback
  • Affordability: - Many forms of distance learning involve little or no cost.
  • Multi-sensory:- One of the benefits of distance learning is that there is a wide variety of materials that can meet everyone's learning preference -- at least part of the time
  • Interactivity:- Contrary to popular opinion, distance learning courses can offer increased interactions with students. In particular, introverted students who are too shy to ask questions in class will often "open up" when provided the opportunity to interact via e-mail or other individualized means.
  • Equity:- Educational inequity is a major issue in this and other countries. Rural schools often have less contact with educational trends, fewer qualified teachers, and more need for technology..

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