At its most broad level, distance learning is any educational or learning process or system in which the instructor is separated geographically or in time from his or her students; or in which students are separated from other students or educational resources. Contemporary distance learning is effected through the implementation of computer and electronics technology to connect instructor and student in either real or delayed time or on an as-needed basis. Content delivery may be achieved through a variety of technologies, including satellites, computers, cable television, interactive videoconferencing, electronic transmissions via telephone lines, and others. Distance learning does not preclude traditional learning processes; frequently it is used in conjunction with face-to-face tutoring or professional training procedures and practices.
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Distance learning represents the whole category of technology-based learning which includes a wide set of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) applications and processes. Distance learning tools include web-based learning, computer-based learning, videoconferencing, virtual classrooms, and digital collaboration. Sad to say, the benefits and advantages of the distance learning haven't yet fully recognized and acknowledged in many parts of the world. In actuality, distance learning is a credible, efficient and effective alternative to classical education.
Typical ICT-Based Models of Learning
The recent revolution in Information and Communications technologies has produced a variety of ICT-based models of learning. Here, we may cite a few examples:
- Learning by "correspondence".
- Learning through "Pressure Sensitive Blackboards".
- Learning through "Video Taped Lectures".
- Learning through Interactive CD's".
- Learning through "Web-based courseware".
- Learning through "Satellite delivered courses".
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Distance learning opportunities provide individuals who might not normally be capable of continuing their education by physically participating in traditional learning institutions. Distance learning lets you overcome personal responsibilities, such as work, family, or medical that may prevent you from attending a live, scheduled learning program at a college or university. Distance learners must be motivated and committed to participating in an active learning environment. Students must also have access to the internet - whether at home, work, or in a lab facility - in order to completely participate in the learning environment. Students should expect to log on at least 3-times a week for varying lengths of time
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In an online course, the instructor and students are connected to each other through the web. Using the internet, you can at any time receive instruction, compose and submit assignments, ask questions, discuss issues and actively participate in the classroom discussions. Courses may also incorporate other web-based materials, textbooks, application software, simulations, and other learning activities like projects, presentations and experiments.
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e-learning is becoming a popular mode of learning due to the vast benefits that e-learners can enjoy as learning:
- Fosters interactivity that stimulates understanding and the recall of information.
- Reduces travel time and costs for students.
- Eliminates the opportunity cost of losing a job as e-learning is designed for full-time employers who can't take a long vacation for a study abroad.
- Accommodates different learning styles and fosters learning through a variety of flexible activities that apply to different learning styles.
- Enables localization and contextualization of content.
- Allows for self-paced learning whereby students can learn at the most convenient rate giving the learner full control over the learning environment.
- Allows for full flexibility of access in terms of time and place.
- Encourages students to browse information through hyperlinks to sites on the World Wide Web and thereby have easy access to global resources.
- Develops knowledge of the Internet that will help learners throughout their careers.
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e-learning faces many challenges that should be seriously considered:
- Technical difficulties may hamper students and instructors
- Some students may not have access to the internet.
- Instructors may need to become familiar with electronic text books; Internet-based research material, copyright, and other e-learning related topics.
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