Distance Learning: Adapting to the changing times

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Alternative ways of learning have been introduced as early as the eighteenth century and due to rising popularity, they have now become a big opportunity to the conventional education system.

Classes that started with private correspondence courses in 1728 have certainly come a long way. The third generation of Distance Learning that is commonly referred to as Online Learning has helped the education system undergo a complete reform.

Here are a few interesting facts about Distance Learning in its initial stages:

• The University Of London was the first school to offer its degrees worldwide in 1858, with Mauritius becoming the first overseas country to host its examinations.
• Between 1918 and 1946, the Federal Communications Commission grants licenses to some 200 colleges to deliver education via radios.
• After 1950 courses were also broadcasted over TV.

To get a better understanding of how far we’ve come from learning via radios and TVs, let’s focus on how distance learning is enhancing the learning experience.

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Online Distance Learning

Technological breakthroughs transformed education across the world. In 1970, learners came to know about virtual campuses and satellite education for the first time.

And then the World Wide Web was created, changing things entirely:

• Universities started offering online distance learningthat allowed students to learn from home.
• Personal and professional commitments that stood as a big hurdle in the way of attaining higher education vanished completely.
• Students from all over the world had access to up to date resources and expert academic tutors through an interactive virtual learning environment. Some of these exciting digital resources include webinars, online discussions, and workshops.
• Online classes can now be accessed through a wide range of devices, including PCs, tablets and e-readers, enabling students to study on the move.
• Learners have the opportunity to share knowledge and network with peers across the world

“I realized that I can develop strong relationships with my fellow students without seeing them”, says Donna Britt, who received her Ed.D in Management of Programs in Child and Youth Services from Nova Southeastern University in Ft. Lauderdale, FL. Her online course opened up a whole new world of learning for her.

Kathy Rogers, earning her degree in Early Childhood Education, thinks video lectures boost learning energy:

“while watching the videos, I felt like I was a live participant in the class…because the readings and assignments fit together perfectly on the video”.

“I’m in my home all day and work from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. and studying online is so convenient. If I tried to get to a class on campus, by the time I drove and found a place to park, I would always be late”, states Gwen Ridley Robertson, a family child care provider. 

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Online distance learning made lifelong learning possible, preparing individuals for better future opportunities.

“I live in Lagos, Nigeria. I work full-time, continuing the business established by my late father”, says IkpongUmoh studying his online MBA with a prestigious UK University. He intends to learn as much as possible about business management so that he is able to take advantage of every opportunity that arises. “In this course I am not just studying for a qualification, but for knowledge and modern management techniques that I can apply to turn around our company”, explains the promising businessman.

Thus, online distance learning is a major milestone in the evolution of distance learning. It has brought significant benefits to students and employers around the world and it will be interesting to find out what’s next.

Article Sources: 1.usa.gov/1d0tOUz, bit.ly/1hThZAE, bit.ly/PXHbN4