Dec
30
With the advent of the internet, many people have the perception that distance learning started at the same time. However, the distance learning programs are much older. In the mid 1800’s, correspondence courses were offered through the mail. By the 1900’s, students were learning everything from gunsmithing to business via mailed courses.
Present day technologies such as the teleconferencing, the internet, cable communication, and satellite broadcasts, have brought distance learning to the student more quickly and with lower costs. Now more than ever, prestigious schools are offering distance learning programs.
With the busy lives of people, enrollment in online education and distance learning programs are rising because of it is often times a practical and flexible way for someone to get an education while still working full time and taking care of a family.
Dec
29
Is there such a thing as a typical online student? Actually no. If one were to survey a distance learner, one would find that students come from varied backgrounds, ages, and walks of life. However, more of the students are:
1) older than traditional aged college students
2) many already have full time jobs and are using the distance online education resource because of its flexibility.
3) many students are female single parents
4) students are busy adults that live too far away from a school to attend night classes
5) homemakers who want to prepare for a career while still taking care and raising a family
6) employees who seek distance learning because of job training that cannot be obtained at the workplace
7) disabled students who are unable to attend campus classes
retirees who want to learn a new hobby or skill for leisure pursuits