Distance learning is defined as a method of education where the learner is physically separate from the teacher (Simonson, M., et. al. 2012). The potential benefits of distance learning as an online student is having the ability to be flexible and work at my own pace. Although I am not in the traditional classroom setting, I can utilize various resources and effectively communicate with the instructor and classmates. In regards to benefits and opportunities within the k-12, higher education and corporate training; this method of learning has emerged through virtual schools, mentoring and tutoring, interactions with outside experts through the use of video or telephone conferencing and professional development courses.
Even though there are many benefits to this form of learning; there are also some challenges. People have very different learning styles and some are not able to learn effectively through distance learning alone and still require the traditional classroom methods. “Problems and barriers encountered by the student fall into several distinct categories; costs and motivators, feedback and teacher contact, student support and services, alienation and isolation, lack of experience, and training”( Galusha, J., 2008).
References
Galusha, J.M., (2008). Barriers to learning in distance education. Retrieved from: http://www.infrastruction.com/barriers.htm
Simonson, M., Smaldino, S., Albright, M., & Zvacek, S. (2012). Teaching and learning at a distance: Foundations of distance education (5th ed.) Boston, MA: Pearson. Chapter 2, "Definitions, History, and Theories of Distance Education" (pp. 32–41).
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