The Advantages of Online Distance Learning

While not every school leaver has access to the luxury of completing his or her secondary education and spending a number of years pursuing a post-secondary qualification, a thirst for knowledge exists in the hearts of individuals across all socio-economic divides. There is a corresponding need for educational institutions to provide opportunities for education which override geographic and financial barriers. Distance education fills this gap in the educational market, empowering students who are hindered by geographic and socio-economic factors and cannot attend lectures at a face-to-face educational institution. It brings access to quality education to every individual, irrespective of his or her status, place of residence and lifestyle.

The nature of distance education is conducive to affordability, with minimal lecturing staff to be paid and none of the overhead costs of face-to-face teaching facilities. Distance learning institutions generally offer a variety of easy payment options, and course fees tend to be all-inclusive, meaning that all textbooks and study aids are included in the course fees.

Distance learning students do not incur the cost or inconvenience of attending face to face lectures or tutorials. They do, however, have access to all the academic support they need to excel in the course of their choice. Distance learning institutions provide details of lecturers or tutors who students can contact if they struggle with any aspect of the course work. Furthermore, the Internet is revolutionising the way distance learning is conducted, with interactive online tutorials, video lectures and discussion groups becoming increasingly prevalent.

Distance learning provides opportunities for education that are compatible with students' lifestyles. One can continue to work full-time or be a full time parent while working towards a better future. Students can devise their own study schedule to suit their lifestyle and work commitments, and progress with their course at a pace that suits them. Many distance education institutions offer flexibility in terms of the duration of courses and assessment methods offered. This gives students the freedom to study at their own pace and continue to earn while they learn.

Studying by correspondence offers a level of flexibility that can never be found in face-to-face learning institutions. Students can live anywhere and study in any manner that suits them. The range of qualifications offered by a typical distance learning institution will be broader than those offered at a face-to-face institution, and will range from degrees and diplomas to internal Enrichment Programmes. These programmes tend to offer students the opportunity to pursue careers in unconventional fields and turn their creative talents into lucrative careers.

The capacity at South African universities is limited, and distance learning institutions place quality tertiary education within the reach of those who have been excluded from universities but still have the drive and ambition to succeed.

Correspondence education opens up practical opportunities for companies to update the knowledge and skills base of their staff without losing work time or suffering lowered productivity. This could not only give employees the opportunity to perform their current job functions more effectively, but also boost their morale and encourage them to grow within the company.

The concept of distance learning is where convenience and flexibility meet education, opening a window of opportunity for every individual, irrespective of his or her finances, circumstances and areas of interest.

Steph McLennan writes for Damelin Correspondence College. For more information on some courses visit: Distance Learning

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