Distance Learning Center @ TestPrepReview.com

Online distance learning, or e-learning, is learning that is conducted through use of the internet. The first computer based learning system was created in 1961 at the University of Illinois and was called Programmed Logic for Automatic Teaching Operations or PLATO. PLATO was a system that could be programmed with educational material that was accessible to students wanting to learn more about a subject area. After the foundation of the internet in 1969, online distance learning programs began developing. CALCampus in 1994 and 1995 was the first completely online distance learning school. There was no on ground campus so everything needed in the educational process could be completed online. Since that time many private and public universities began offering online distance learning programs. Online distance learning programs meet the needs of working adults, people living in rural areas, retirees, or any other student who can not spend the hours required to take courses in a classroom.

There are many similar characteristics online distance learning programs share whether they are from a high school, private or public college. The school will provide access to the online distance learning courses through a link on their website. Multiple courses may be displayed if the student is taking more than one online class. Once the course is selected the student will be able to access syllabi, assignments, exams, and grades. Before online distance learning existed, distance learning programs consisted of purchasing a book or audio tape and completing assignments through the mail with no interaction with classmates or an instructor. The online classroom will usually have a discussion area where other students and the instructor can be contacted and discussions can be tracked and participated in. Some virtual classrooms have a link for live web chats where interaction is live and interactive. The online distance learning classroom will have access to email where private conversations can be held. Assignments are typically submitted through an email attachment or can be saved to an assignment link. Most online distance learning programs provide access to a virtual library where research can be conducted for the class. Technical support through the college is offered for online distance learning students.

Distance learning online programs range from a high school diploma to a doctorate. Professional certifications and information on almost any subject can be received through distance learning online. Distance learning online is a fairly new trend because widespread use of the internet is less than 20 years old. Throughout history, society has become more mobile and global creating a need for an educational institution that could be accessed away from a traditional college setting. Distance learning online schools have provided the solution and now students can choose to earn an online degree from many schools all over the country and even overseas. Because the distance learning courses are online, out of state tuition rates do not apply making an online degree affordable.

Most distance learning online degree programs are conducted completely over the internet. Admission, registration, academic counseling and textbooks can all be purchased online. The courses are conducted in a virtual classroom with other online students and a professor. Chat rooms or discussion boards are typically present in the classroom where students are either encouraged or required to interact with one another. Some distance learning online colleges require students to work on virtual learning teams where they must complete team projects over the internet. Through online videos and podcasting, students can view previously taped lectures from instructors without ever entering a classroom. Online students can communicate with other students and their instructors through email. Web conferencing is another communication source where students can talk to their instructors or peer groups in real time if the students and the college have access to the technology.

Distance learning online programs offer flexibility but also require certain personality traits for successful completion. Attendance requires self-motivation and self-discipline. The online student has to be able to schedule time for each class to complete the coursework which requires time management skills. Computer literacy is very important. In a traditional classroom many students rely on somebody else to ask the instructor for clarification. The online student needs to be able to ask questions without fear to make sure he or she understands the class concepts.