Since the early 1990s, distance education and e-learning have taken off worldwide.
There are three big reasons distance education and e-learning became popular: flexibility, smart technology and cost. You can work, support a family and still get the qualifications that will make all the difference to your career prospects -that is flexibility.
Second, the technology for learning -web-based tools, simulations, effective video and audio-conferences, day-to-day contact with instructors and fellow students -has become much easier. Specialized system for conferencing, connecting and learning are increasing student engagement to the point at which e-learning is the preferred mode of learning for many students.
Finally, it saves money. While the tuition costs may be the same as an on-campus program, money is saved in terms of not having to travel from your home to a college or university, not having to move to a different city, meals eaten out and accommodation.
The development of e-learning and the power of the Internet are opening new programs and new collaborations between colleges and universities. Take the Masters degree Chief Atleo took. It is from four universities who collaborate to offer a unique degree in Adult Learning and Global Change. The universities are Linköping University (Sweden), University of British Columbia (Canada), University of Western Cape (South Africa) and Monash University (Australia). This program requires no campus attendance and is delivered entirely online. It is available to anyone globally.
Read more...
Related link
All that one needs to be an effective distance education student is access to the Internet, either at home, at work or in a dedicated centre for learning such as a Contact North Contact Nord Access Centre in your community and a commitment to learning. Some courses require you to participate in video and audioconferencing, which Contact North Contact Nord also supports. After that, time management and support from friends and family are the key ingredients to success.
http://www.contactnorth.ca
http://www.mindsharelearning.com/report
Source: Northern Daily News