What is Distance Education?
Distance education is the delivery of instructional information that does not confine the student to be physically present in the same location as the instructor/teacher. To be effective, distance education offerings must include opportunities for personal interaction.
The Reality of Distance Education?
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You must be a self starter
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Online classes are not easier than traditional classes
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Online classes are convenient and flexible
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Online education can be technologically challenging
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Less opportunity to interact with peers and instructors in real time
Is Distance Education Right For You?
When considering a distance education program, ask yourself the following questions?
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Do you have adequate computer equipment with Internet access?
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Is your computer situated in a quiet location where you can work uninterrupted?
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Are you more interested in curriculum than interaction?
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Are you a highly focused, self-disciplined individual?
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Do you find the distance learning approach preferable to traditional in-classroom student/teacher stimulation?
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Do you need a flexible program to fit your needs?
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Is the content you want to study appropriate for online learning (meaning no hands-on instruction)?
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Do you prefer one-on-one interaction with Faculty (most likely via e-mail rather than classroom participation)?
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Will you benefit from distance education?
If you answered YES to at least six of these questions, then distance education might be a good fit for you. As you explore a distance education program, be sure to consider your capabilities in terms of time, and identify the specific approaches and attendance requirements.