Advantages of Distance Education for Adults
Online Degree Programs for Professional and Personal Growth
College and universities are challenged with providing educational opportunities for adults who want to continue their education and are not in a position to attend traditional classroom settings. This has brought about a boom in distance education. Distance education has entered main stream education and is here to stay.
In the past, adults who took advantage of distance education programs referred to as non-traditional students. Today this term no longer applies, because distance education is part of most college and university programs to meet demand. Every year more and more degree programs are being offered for those who want to continue their education.
Individual Advantages of Distance Education
The advantages for individuals in this education alternative method teaching and learning for adults include:
- Courses for those with time limitations for various reasons.
- Flexibility to study in any convenient location with an Internet connection.
- Flexibility to join conversations online discussion groups at any hour and to review classmates' comments.
- More opportunities to study the most current material available.
- Flexibility for those with irregular work schedules.
- Study materials at own speed, without having to wait for slower pace of the average classroom or being overwhelmed in fast paced classroom.
- Ability to take courses when living too far from the college or university.
- Those with physical challenges which prevent attendance.
Technology Advantages of Distance Education
Many adults, when thinking about enrolling in distance education, wonder if they will receive the same level of teaching and learning opportunities as traditional education. The answer is yes, because course requirements are not reduced and they have plenty of opportunity to interact with their instructor, along with fellow classmates. Communication is typically accomplished through the use of a range of technological options, all of which take advantage of anyone’s specific situation, such as:
- Voice – audio tools include the interactive technologies of telephone and video/audio conferencing (one-way or two-way video with two-way audio).
- Video – video tools include still images, pre-produced videos (film and videotape), and real-time videos combined with audio conferencing.
- Computer-Assisted Instruction (CAI) – uses computers as a teaching tool to present individual lessons.
- Computer-Managed Instruction (CMI) – uses computers to organize and deliver instruction using the Internet has the prime method of delivery.
- Fax
- Real-time computer conferencing
- Internet applications
- Web-based resources such as online textbooks, study guides, workbooks, syllabi, case studies, reading resources, and more.
Distance Education Degree Advantages
Many degree programs are available through distance education programs offered by colleges and universities. Adults who want to continue their studies in specific fields or change careers can earn Certificates of Certification, Associates, Bachelor, Masters, and Doctorate degrees.
The following is a sampling of degree programs which can be completed through distance education:
- Accounting
- Education – all areas
- Business – all areas
- Sciences – all areas
- Clinical and Medical Studies – all areas
- Computer Studies – all areas
- Engineering
- Journalism
- English
- Health Services – all areas
- Transportation – all areas
- Tourism
- And many more
The only limitation is the desire and determination of the individual to enroll and complete a distance education program. The advantages are enormous for advancement in a current company or completely changing careers and starting fresh. Also distance education has no age limitations, whether completing an entire degree program or taking selected courses for personal or professional growth. See 10 Tips for Adults Going Back to School for important information to consider about going back to school. Also visit Adults Going Back to School and Fitting In for more tips.
