Computers and the internet have made distance learning a more affordable and easily accessible mode of learning. Because of this, you may think that it is a recent invention and came about only because of technology. However, we can trace back its beginnings in the US to the early 1700s when it was first offered as weekly lessons in shorthand writing sent through the mail. It relied on the availability of the US postal system, and lessons were completed in within the time dictated by the speed of the mail. The University of London began its own program in 1858 by establishing an External Programme. In Australia, distance learning was started in 1911 by the University of Australia’s Department of Correspondence Studies.
The basic premise of education as understood in distance learning remains the same as in the traditional system. The main difference lies in the physical separation of the student and the teacher during the instructional phase of the course. Distance learning makes use of technology in delivering the educational materials such as video, audio, data, and print. Before the advent of the World Wide Web, distance learning made use of the television, compact discs, teleconferencing and printed materials sent through what we now call snail mail.
Distance learning will not function without communication. Thus, in this system, there exist a two-way means of communication between learner and teacher or educational institution that manages the program. This is accomplished again, through available technology, usually by means computers and the internet, through audioconference or videoconference. The learning experience is enhanced because of the rich interactivity offered by these technologies. And unlike traditional classroom courses where the instructor is the one dictating the pace of the learning process, it is the student who controls it.
The World Wide Web has made distance learning more openly accessible to all people around the globe. It has further brought down some of the most formidable barriers to education – distance and cost. Many schools have opened their own websites as portals to their institutions where students around the world can enroll at anytime. Having online versions of their traditional courses, these institutions have enhanced the credibility of distance learning as a legitimate means to acquire certificates and diplomas that companies anywhere in the world will recognize and accept as part of their applicants’ credentials. Students and instructors keep in touch and exchange ideas more efficiently and if needed in real time to make the learning experience immediate and responsive.
The internet has facilitated the spread of distance learning around the world and has been instrumental in advancing the careers of many people who have obtained or completed their degrees through online courses. If you left school without getting your diploma or certificate, you can enroll in a distance learning program offered by a school of your choice. You don’t have to change your residence or resign from work so you can attend the nearest school. This is the perfect way to get the qualification you need if you are already working or are constrained to attend regular classroom lessons. You can increase your employment prospects by developing further the professional skills you already possess by taking courses that are related to your present work. If you are already working for a financial organization but lack certain qualification, you can take the appropriate course that will qualify you for the position you are aspiring for such as a course in accounting and finance. You can even find work-based distance learning programs where you can learn from the paid work or volunteer work you are actually doing at present.
If you sense that some unforeseen, major changes are occurring in your company and your continued employment is at risk and uncertain, you can either remain hopeful or take some steps to make sure that your employability remains on your company’s priority. You can do this by taking distance learning courses that are designed to develop and improve your professional skills.
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