Distance Learning SchoolDistance learning schools are becoming increasingly popular ways to earn a diploma, certification, or degree. There are two basic types of distance learning schools, with variations within each type. The older, more traditional type of distance learning school is part of a technical school, junior college, private college, or university that also offers face-to-face classes on one or more campuses. The other kind of distance learning school is dedicated to virtual learning and may not even have a campus setting.
Another form that distance learning offered through a traditional school might take is to permit most of the student’s work to be done virtually, using the internet, videos, or physical materials that are delivered to the student. However, minimal attendance at one or more seminars or workshops might be required, or the student might be obligated to take quizzes and tests on campus to ensure the identity of the examinee is the same as that of the enrolled student. There are a number of well-publicized schools fully dedicated to distance learning that have begun making appearances throughout the United States. Many of these schools offer a solid education, and give students the flexibility they may need to complete a degree. Students should make certain that the school they are interested in is accredited by a board or organization that is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. The easiest way to do so is by visiting the government website. “Know thyself” should be the first advice given to anyone interested in distance learning, because it isn’t the best way to learn for everyone. Less mature students sometimes assume that since there isn’t a teacher physically present, distance learning classes are an opportunity to do little and still get college credit. In fact, nothing could be further from the truth. There is an instructor who will track each student’s involvement in coursework. Assignments are given, and they must be completed by the deadline, if one has been determined. Instructors are no more willing to accept excuses for late or missing work than are teachers in face-to-face classrooms. Any student who isn’t fully dedicated to making concentrated effort in order to really learn should not consider distance learning, as they won’t be likely to pass the course. Students who have good intentions but live chaotic lives might also not be the best candidates for distance learning. This type of study requires exceptional concentration and organization, as well as good time management skills. Distance learning schools offer terrific opportunities to mature individuals who might otherwise not be able to attend college, or to those for whom the convenience and flexibility is a major selling point. For example, someone who depends upon the steady income generated by a current job might be reluctant to leave that job—especially if the degree being sought will give her the chance to advance within the company. A person who lives an hour or more away from campus might have a hard time getting there two to five times a week for classes. A single parent of youngsters might not have the means to pay a babysitter for so many hours, or even if free childcare is available through family or friends, to give up those precious hours would be a big sacrifice for both parent and child. Someone with a physical disability or someone who is incarcerated likewise may be unable to travel to and from campus several times a week. As long as these individuals are willing to give up television or other free time and can stay on task, earning a diploma, certificate, or degree via distance learning may be the best answer. However, a caveat is in order. It’s essential to be certain the program you select is not only accredited, but also accredited by a group that is recognized by the Department of Education and the Council on Higher Education Accreditation. There are a number of reasons. First, only students attending schools that have been properly evaluated by a recognized, independent agency that has no stake in the school’s success are eligible for any kind of federal financial aid. Scholarships, grants, and student loans are reserved for students of colleges and universities that are proven. This means the education they provide has been scrutinized and found to be at an acceptable level in line with the educations offered by accredited schools with physical campuses. Beware. Some schools will advertise on websites, in printed material, or verbally that they are accredited. They won’t be lying. But what you need to know is that there are plenty of accrediting groups out there that are thinly veiled businesses looking to make money and not even remotely concerned about the quality of education a school might give. Not only will enrolling in one such school limit your financial aid, it will result in a piece of paper that few employers will be interested in. Unless you are pursuing a higher education for its own sake and really don’t require the certificate or degree to get ahead, it’s best to avoid schools of this kind. Legitimate accrediting groups might be regional, national, or professional. Certain areas of academic concentration have their own legitimate accrediting boards—for example, the American Medical Association for those in the medical field. |
Within the more traditional type of distance learning methods, there are a range of possible offerings. Many, if not most, schools currently offer hybrid classes. These are classes that require student attendance in a physical classroom for half or fewer of the class meetings. For example, if a college offers a traditional course in composition that meets twice a week for an hour and a half each time, in a hybrid class the student might be required to attend class only once a week and complete home study the equivalent of the second class period.