The term online distance degree refers to earning your college or university degree through an internet computer without the traditional college campus setting. All thanks to developments in technology, getting a degree is now much easier through the faster means of a computer and the internet! Such degrees include any regular degree or even a bachelor's degree, as well as a master's degree.
The education system abroad has devised this method to make it easier for children to get a diploma than just comply with a diploma. Although this is a relatively newer method, it is a proven guaranteed method. Distance online degrees are especially useful for people with physical disabilities, those who work late, and even those who don't have access to a good school, college, or university. The use of an online distance degree is growing rapidly in the western world. By definition, it is 'a process of creating and making learning accessible when the source of information and the learners are separated by time and distance, or both'. It refers to transferring learning to the student, to help them adapt outside the classroom atmosphere.
This method gains momentum in giving individual attention to the students and helps with international communication.
Distance Learning History/Origin:
o This method of learning dates back to the mid-19th century, where the University of London is believed to have first introduced distance learning. Later at another university, the University of South Africa, an online correspondence course started. Many other universities soon followed suit. The larger university offering an online distance degree is the 'open university' in the UK; founded in 1969.
o Technology used:
Online distance degree broadly uses different types of technologies, which are mainly characterized into synchronous and asynchronous.
o Synchronous technology refers to a group of people receiving exactly the same information at a fixed time and place. This is most commonly used in school and junior college/undergraduate programs. Learning is done via telephone, video conferencing or web conferencing.
o Asynchronous technology uses audio cassettes, e-mails, print materials and much more.
Types of Online Distance Diploma Courses:
o Correspondence courses via e-mail.
o Learning CD - ROM. Here the student can access his study material using CDs or content already stored on a CD-ROM.
Major advantages of this method:
Online Distance Diploma offers great benefits in 3 main categories:
- For children who do not have access to schools, colleges or any other institution that provides education, this method is a blessing. This is known as access extension.
- It fulfills the student's quest for lifelong learning. So it helps with emerging market opportunities.
- It helps individuals to adapt to the ever faster growing technological developments. Students learn along with educational technology.
There are several myths about distance learning. There is still a hesitation among students when it comes to taking a diploma course online. Some fear that employment will become a major problem as their employers may not accept an online degree certificate. However, these are just myths, because no one can refuse a recognized diploma, online or not!
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