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5 Steps To Successful Long Distance Learning
by Francis Y Ireton
http://www.fyilearning.com
Once upon a time, a friend joked, 'Where'd you get your
degree, the internet?' The concept of long distance was seen
as not quite legitimate, not quite as good as the same
degree acquired in a classroom. That perception has changed
enormously as educators, employers and students learn that
the decision to take college courses over the internet
requires dedication and hard work - often more of each than
an equivalent education on campus.
What a change there's been in just ten years! There are now
hundreds of universities that offer at least some courses
online, and dozens that offer entire degree programs over
the internet. You can take courses in most undergrad course
work that doesn't involve hands on experimentation via the
net, and with the possibilities of local internships, it may
not be long before you can earn a degree in nearly any field
without ever setting foot on campus.
We've come a long way, baby. I can't imagine what doors
might have been open to my friend Linda had she had today's
tools and technology to back up her determination and
efforts. However, the things that made her a successful long
distance learner are the same qualities that will help you
achieve success in your learning.
There are some disadvantages as well, though those are less
clearly defined. In fact, for some, the seeming
disadvantages may be advantages. They include the less
personal atmosphere, the lack of face to face contact and
the lack of social outlets and contact between classmates
and professors. In addition, you'll miss out on the class
discussions and interaction that often can clarify ideas.
Do you have a stable internet connection? You'll need the
ability to access the internet for class meetings, email,
coursework instructions and communicating with your
instructor and other students. A stable internet connection
is a must. If you're relying on accessing the internet
through a library or other public network, chances are
you'll find it impossible to keep up with your learning.
3. Choose classes that fit your learning style. New
technology is constantly changing the way that online
classes are taught. With webcams and videoconferencing so
readily available, even those students who thrive on class
contact can do well with distance learning. Take a look
beyond subject matter when choosing your classes to the
methods of teaching, and choose a class that will give you
what you need to learn well.
Do you have an internet connection that you can rely on?
Again, since you'll be doing most of your work online, a
stable internet connection is an absolute must. If you need
to rely on public access through a library or community
access center, you'll find it difficult to keep up.
Can you generally find things on the internet? Believe it or
not, one of the most useful skills you can have is the
ability to find almost anything you're looking for online.
If you're the person that people turn to when they need to
find out something fast, you'll probably do quite well with
long distance learning.
How well can you communicate through writing and reading?
Good reading comprehension is vital to successful distance
learning. If you have trouble understanding instructions,
your instructor may not be easily available to clarify. The
same applies in reverse - you'll need to be able to clearly
explain your needs and put your knowledge into writing. If
you're not comfortable expressing yourself in writing, then
you'll be more comfortable in a traditional classroom.
How motivated are you? The more motivated you are, the more
likely it is that you will do well with distance learning.
While that can be said of any course of study, it's
especially true of distance learning, where there's not
scheduled class meetings to keep you on task and on track.
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