Distance learning degrees are associates, bachelors, masters and doctorate degrees earned outside of a traditional classroom. Distance learning degrees can be earned from community colleges and state universities. The coursework required from students earning distance learning degrees and those students earning traditional degrees at state universities and community colleges is exactly the same. If a lab is required for a class, it will be required whether the course is taken online or at the school campus. The benefit of distance learning degrees from state universities or community colleges is that they hold the same equivalency as traditional degrees when entering the workforce. If a person earns a bachelors degree in history from the University of Houston and completes most of the coursework online, the degree is exactly the same as someone earning the same degree in a classroom. The downside to a public university is there are few degree programs that can be completed completely online because exams or labs may be required which are conducted on campus.
Distance learning degrees can be earned at private universities. There are some differences between private distance learning programs and state distance learning programs. Private universities are different because they can vary in the classes required for a degree. Traditional lab science credits, for example, are not necessary at many private universities so all of the coursework can be completed entirely online. Distance learning degrees from private universities may not be as widely accepted as degrees from state universities by employers. The student needs to make sure the private university is nationally accredited.
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The degree earned through a distance learning program is educationally equivalent to the degree earned from a traditional program. The main difference between the two degrees is the method of delivery of each type of degree. A distance learning degree program takes place outside of a traditional classroom and through the use of technology. The internet is the main method used to administer classes in a distance learning degree program and there are many benefits for a student to participate in an online course. An online distance learning degree program provides flexibility because the courses can be accessed at anytime. The online rather than traditional classroom forum means that the student saves time driving to and from campus and the student does not have to pay for parking at the university. In a traditional classroom many students are present that may compete for the instructors’ attention. The online distance learning degree program can offer more one on one time between student and instructor where the student has the teachers’ full attention. Most communication is through email although many instructors will provide a phone number they can be reached at for additional help.
There are some personality traits a person should possess in order to be successful at completing a distance learning degree program. The individual must be highly self-motivated and self-disciplined. While much of the coursework in a distance learning degree program is self-paced, there are many distance learning classes that have a start and end date which must be followed. The student must have good reading comprehension skills because he or she will not have an instructor verbally explaining all elements of the class. Visual aids are typically used by an instructor in a classroom to help explain ideas and these aids are frequently unavailable in an online or distance class. The student must possess some basic computer skills. The ability to navigate the internet and websites is extremely important in a distance learning degree program.
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