Distance learning, as its name suggests, is the process of learning from an institution without attending classes physically at the institution's premises. Distance learning in this rapidly globalizing world has evolved tremendously recently and we can classify them into the following categories:

-Online learning via the internet direct
-Online learning via an appropriate  media or information downloaded from the internet
-Distance learning via correspondence (email or snail mail) through books recommended
-Distance learning via attendance of off-campus seminars at regular intervals
-Distance learning via a combination of any of the above.

The modes of delivery above are the very reasons why prospective students chooses distance learning, especially working adults. For working adults, this means studying on a part time basis without sacrificing the pay that comes with the job and sometimes lower cost. The other main reason for studying via distance learning is that the education institution is located to far away and students cannot afford additional lodging cost to travel and stay near the institution.

Another benefit of distance education is the assessment method. A great deal of distance learning courses are on open basis with the appropriate balance between experiences and academic qualifications as entry requirements. Again this is useful for both students and the education provider as it is less stringent for the student and easier for the institution to increase the enrollment.

However, I would like to advise potential students to be wary of unscrupulous  institutions who offers nothing more than a piece of paper which the degree or diploma is printed on. See http://www.unidegree.com/degree_mills.html for a list which is allegedly a listing of "degree mills". A degree mill generally, offers degrees without the student having to study based on life experiences an a substantial payment.

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The author is the principal consultant of DRC Services which specializes in management consultancy , educational services and training. Mr. Shum has many years of senior management experiences  in multinationals, higher learning institutions and listed companies.  Mr. Shum can be contacted at shumyl@drcservices.biz for assignments on project basis in the field of  human resources management and Business management

The article above is an independent work submitted by the above author and does not reflect or represent views of the management, owners and agents of this website.

© 2006/2007 Shum Ying Loon. All Rights Reserved Updated 03/09/01  
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