Is Distance Learning Online Right For You?

You may have come across distance learning in magazines, news, or brochures. Currently, it is one of the best alternatives to learning. In fact, many colleges, trade schools, and universities are offering some portion of their curriculum online. With distance learning even those old individuals are given a chance to earn a degree of their choosing. 

It eliminates several barriers to traditional learning which is why it is really beneficial to people who wish to learn but cannot leave their own home. In this kind of learning, the people in charge bring the education to where its students are. As such, the students are no longer required to attend traditional classes. All learning activities will be brought to their place. In actuality, this concept has been around since the 1800s where schools offered weekly mailed lessons to students living in rural areas. 

Distance learning requires independence

If you choose this kind of learning, a great deal of independence will be required from you. 

You will be solely responsible for completing lessons and turning in assignments. Also, you will be managing your own time. Your lessons may include lessons present in traditional classes but you will be spending more time over the internet. 

There will usually be tests and assignments that can be completed at your own pace. Usually, exams and assignments are sent online. You will be given time to comply, then all answers will be sent online too. However, some Universities require that all tests and exams be taken in person, and monitored by University staff.

Are you organized?

Organization is key if you're going to be successful with you online coursework. You will not have fellow students or a teacher to rely on. Thus it is always a good idea to constantly remind yourself about the requirements. It is essential that you get to finish them on time. 

Assignments and course readings will be clearly outlined on your syllabus with due dates. Some students take advantage of this and try to stay about a week ahead of all due dates. You can work on other things if you start with the tasks soon. As such, it is always a good idea to work on the tasks right away. 

Distance Learning requires good study habits

Of course, to complete the whole journey; you need to be serious about learning. You will not only need to plan to time to read your coursework, you should also set aside time carefully study the material. Remember, that it's up to you to ensure that you've understood each lesson. However, if lessons are quite vague, you can contact your instructor. The assigned instructor will explain to you things that you do not understand. 

You can contact them through phone calls during office hours. You can also send your inquiry via mail. No matter what method you choose, it's important to be as clear as possible on the key points of each lesson. 

Distance Learning online requires comfort with technology.

Usually, distance education requires usage of computer and internet. You need to have knowledge on simple computer tasks.  

Some key skills you should have:

• Composing and Sending Email
• Opening attachments and sending attachments
• Use of a Word Processor (i.e MS Word or Open Office, etc..)
• Basic Web Navigation and uploading files to the web. 

Learning online can be rewarding. You can improve your life if you go back to school right now. However, it will be much easier this time because you will be learning at home. All you need to possess is dedication as well as skills in computer and internet usage.