Long distance learning can be a great way to get an education without leaving one's home. It allows the freedom to complete coursework largely on an individual's own schedule, meaning he or she can often earn a degree or certificate while working full time and caring for a family. On the other hand, long distance learning can make it more difficult to make the networking connections that are so vital to any educational process, and distance learning programs are often just as expensive, if not more so, than traditional educational programs in residence at a college or university.
A student who is motivated to learn, and who works to complete all the assignments will likely be able to get a thorough, complete education through a distance learning program, on his or her own time. Long distance learning takes place online, typically through some sort of educational software that allows students to log on and perform daily class activities. These might include reading lectures, watching videos, and interacting with other students and instructors through discussion forums, chat rooms, or email. The students will also be able to learn about their class assignments, such as readings or written papers that need to be completed.
This is the main benefit to long distance learning: that an individual does not have to interrupt his or her life, or move to a new location, in order to get a great education. He can keep working full time if necessary, since online classes are often designed to fit in to an existing busy schedule. Some classes may do this by making most work due on the weekends, or by shortening the length of the entire class to allow students to take fewer classes at once but still complete the degree in two to four years. This type of learning also allows interactions with students from all over the world, broadening horizons and making conversations very rewarding.
The downsides of long distance learning include the cost of education, the difficulty some people have with self motivation, and the lack of networking connections. Some students apply for loans, scholarships, and grants to help finance their education. Schools will also occasionally host residency sessions once or twice per year, allowing distance students to come onto campus for a few days and meet their classmates and instructor to help facilitate networking. Ultimately, the rewards one gets from long distance learning is often completely proportional to the amount of time and effort that he or she puts into it.
