Distance Education
Overview
Distance education, also known as distance learning, is a way of learning remotely without being in regular face-to-face contact with a teacher in the classroom. In the UK such learning has its roots in students learning through correspondence coursesCorrespondence Courses. More than 270,000 undergraduate students are studying via distance learning, in addition to some 108,000 postgraduate studentsPostgraduate Education.
History
The concept of distance learning has been in existence for centuries, but its modern form started developing in the mid-19th century. The University of London was the first school to offer distance learning degrees, establishing its External Programme in 1858. This program is now known as the University of London International Programmes and includes Postgraduate, Undergraduate and Diploma degrees created by colleges such as the London School of Economics, Royal Holloway and Goldsmiths.
Types of Distance Education
Distance education can be divided into four types: synchronous learning, asynchronous learning, hybrid/blended learning, and Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs).
Synchronous Learning
Synchronous learning is a learning event in which a group of students are engaging in learning at the same time. Before learning technology allowed for synchronous learning environments, most distance learning was conducted through correspondence, in which the learner would correspond with the instructor via mail.
Asynchronous Learning
Asynchronous learning is a student-centered teaching method widely used in online learning. Its basic premises are such that teaching is conducted on the student's pace and time. This type of learning uses online resources to facilitate information sharing outside the constraints of time and place among a network of people.
Hybrid/Blended Learning
Hybrid, or blended learning, is an approach that combines online and face-to-face instruction. The use of 'blended learning' can mean the mixing of traditional teaching techniques with those that involve computer technology.
Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs)
Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) are free online courses available for anyone to enroll. MOOCs provide an affordable and flexible way to learn new skills, advance your career and deliver quality educational experiences at scale.
Benefits and Challenges
Distance education can expand access to education and training for both general populace and businesses since it allows flexible scheduling structure. Distance learning can also offer a competitive advantage by delivering the same set of training and education services to more people to fit their different learning pace and styles.
However, distance education also comes with its own set of challenges. These include the lack of social interaction, the need for self-discipline, and the possibility of lower-quality or fraudulent programs.
Future of Distance Education
With the advancement of technology and the increasing acceptance and access to the internet, distance education has a promising future. It is expected to continue growing and may become even more popular as more people gain access to the internet and seek flexible and affordable education options.