Distance+learning

Today distance learning is defined as the process of transferring knowledge to learners(students) who are separated from the instructor(teacher) by time and/or physical distance and are making use of technology components, such as the Internet, video, CD's, tapes, and other forms of technology to accomplish learning. The earlier forms of distance learning were done as correspondence courses. This moved to instructional radio and television (then to tapes and videos).Today, the Internet and compressed video have taken distance learning in new directions, allowing distance learning to occur in real time. Live video instruction is the most popular and fastest growing delivery mode in the United States.

People see many benefits to distance learning. These benefits range from expanding access to new fund-raising opportunities.
 * -Expanding access:** Can reach underserved populations of students who cannot attend a school that offers the educational services they desire.
 * -Cost reduction:** Distance education can turn production of content into a repeatable and durable learning tool that does not require as much infrastructure.
 * -Emerging market opportunities:** Distance education fuels the public's need for lifelong learning by providing access to learners not in the traditional k-12 age group.
 * -Adapting to new technology and environments:** Educational institutions may adopt distance education as a means to adapt to the rapid changes in technology being used in education today.
 * -New fund-raising opportunities:** Creates new graduates who might be willing to donate money to the school who would have never have been associated with the school under the traditional system.

Even though there are many benefits to distance learning there are also drawbacks. Regardless of one's personal opinion there are many reasons people take distance learning classes. People use these classes to finish a high school degree or receive a college diploma. These classes are also used by professionals are refreshers or to move up a pay grade. Finally, these classes can be used as a supplement for students.
 * Quality of Instruction**: Research suggests that “the effectiveness of distance learning is based on preparation, the instructor’s understanding of the needs of the students, and an understanding of the target population.” If a teacher does not commit to the class, there is no learning. Technology does not teach students, teachers teach students.
 * -Hidden Costs**: The start up costs for distance learning can outweigh the monetary gains.
 * -Misuse of technology**: There is the lack of training, some instructor’s attitudes about using the technology, and still hardware problems.
 * -Attitudes of instructors, students and administrators**

http://www.westga.edu/~distance/ojdla/fall53/valentine53.html http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Distance_education