Distance learning or e-learning is a form of teaching and learning where both lecturers and students are broadcasted and classes conducted through the cyberspace or the Internet. Though distance learning existed before the inception of the Internet, it had little to offer in term of learning. However, with the internet, distance learning can take place irrespective of the students or instructors’ locations. Students can access the learning materials be it they are at home or their places of work.
The communication between lecturers, students, and other parties happen through most mediums such as instant messaging, chat rooms, bulletin boards, video conferencing, electronic forums and emails. Many programs or systems are used to facilitate distance learning, but the most common of all is the computer-based training (CBT). These programs have essential communication elements facilitate the functioning of virtual classrooms. Moreover, the internet acts as a catalyst that connects the tutors, the students and system together (Schlosser, Simonson & Hudgins, 2010).
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Distance learning is an effective way of learning given its flexibility. So as to support this argument, under this type of learning, lectures can be conducted within a short time and only when you are always available. The mobility of distance learning makes it most useful because one can access it from anywhere anytime, whether on the bus or at home using devices such as laptops, desktop computers, and mobiles phones. A person only needs to get connected to the internet and start their lessons (Cohen, S. 2012).
The cost of implementing and offering distance learning is comparatively small. Unlike traditional classrooms, in distance learning, one does not need to own a land and have the capital to put up the infrastructures which are very expensive. Globalization of the distance learning has made it easier and possible to attend any university or educational institution that is offering distance learning without any hindrance (Cohen, S. 2012). Distance learning has disintegrated geographical barriers; hence, a student in Africa can easily enroll in an American University with necessarily traveling to the US.
Online coaching is one of the best strategies that one might use to engage students. This can be achieved by integrating literacy skills programs in distance learning systems. Therefore, those learners with limited literacy in computer and internet skills can access guidance materials to make their learning much easier.
Most of the students who practice online or distance learning are working class. They have families; hence busy most of the time and at sometimes forget to attend the lessons. It would be much difficult to allocate lecture sessions under physical classrooms to this group concerning their free time. The old group also mostly practice distance learning. The problem that arises among this group of students is the likelihood to forget when they have classes. So as to engage such students in distance learning, I will come up with some instant reminders to remind them when they are supposed to attend online lectures (Wankel, & Blessinger, 2013).
In conclusion, distance learning is one of the best learning methods to have been introduced in the late 19 century. Globalization has made it possible for one to attend any institution in the world and learn any course one wish without discrimination and at a lower cost compared to traditional learning. It has also made it easier for people to continue their education while working freely and taking care of the family matter. So it is upon each and every institution in the world to implement distance learning as one of their method of delivering education. The world is moving fast in term of technologies, and learning institutions should try to get together with technology.
References
Schlosser, L. A., Simonson, M. R., & Hudgins, T. L. (2010). Distance education: Definitions and glossary of terms . Charlotte, N.C: IAP -Information Age Pub.
Yates, J. M. (2003). Interactive distance learning in Prek-12 settings: A handbook of possibilities . Westport: Libraries Unlimited.
Wankel, C., & Blessinger, P. (2013). Increasing Student Engagement and Retention in e-Learning Environments: Web 2.0 and Blended Learning Technologies (Cutting-Edge Technologies in Higher Education) . Bingley BD: Emerald Group Publishing Limited.
Cohen, S. (2012). Distance Learning and the Future of Education. TheHuffingtonPost.com, Inc. Retrieved from http://www.huffingtonpost.com/steven-cohen/distance-learning-and-the_b_1928535.html.
