Distant
learning is the learning program where a student can learn without attending
class. It is a remote way of studying where learning material is provided to
the student but teacher assistance is provided only when necessary. It is a
correspondent way of getting an education.
Modes of distant
education:
There are various types of distant education that help students to learn and get their degree on time.
- Synchronous: Synchronous learning is done with the help of video chat,
conferencing and sitting in the classroom. It is less flexible and day to day
routine of a student is altered. It is
best suited for a degree program that gives personality development.
- Asynchronous: Asynchronous learning doesn’t affect the life of a
student as there is no need to attend classes regularly. Classes are held
either on weekly basis or at student’s own will. It is more flexible and
suitable for the students who want to learn along with the job. But the quality
of learning is not up to the mark.
- Hybrid distance learning: Combination of both synchronous and
asynchronous, in hybrid learning students must attend classes after a fixed
interval of time.
- Computer-based learning: In this, a computer lab acts as a classroom
for the students for a fixed period of time.
- Online Courses:
There are fixed time and open schedule distance learning programs. For fixed
time there is a specified time in which student must login or he may miss the
lecture. For open schedule students are provided data in the form of e-mail,
internet based textbooks, video lectures etc. that they can access anytime.
Assignments
procedures may vary for different type of educations. But is distant education is the best mode of
education? Are there any disadvantages of this education? For understanding, if
one should love or hate distant education he must understand about various pros
and cons of this education.
Pros and Cons of
Distant Education:
Distant education provides an advantage in which student can study
from anywhere and at any time. The flexible amount of time and course duration
provided by distant education makes it easy for the student to work and study
at the same time. They are less costly as compared to regular education. Money
is charged only for registration, study material and fixed classes depending on
course. It can be defined as learning while earning.
But
there are some disadvantages of distant education and one is that it is not
accepted by many multinational companies. So job security is not available with
this education. Seriousness for education and dedication to complete the course
is sometimes missing because distant education doesn’t provide a study
environment to students. Moreover, there
is less scope of personality development with distant education.
Conclusion: Advantages and disadvantages
have always followed each other. So if there is a reason for students to love
distant education, then there is the reason for them to hate it as well. If you
are only considering education for learning than distant education can be
chosen. But if you want job security then you must think a lot before making a
choice.
