How To Get An Online Degree

(Author: Ogni Asuob | Article Views: 33 | Word Count: 606 | Published: Mar 18th 2008)

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Distance learning has come a long way since it was developed during the 1840's as correspondence courses which delivered education to students who were not located on a single campus or site. In essence, distance learning allows students to learn from, and communicate with, tutors either at times of their own choosing or in real time via printed or electronic media instead of having to physically attend courses.

While distance learning has been around for many years and has certainly revolutionised the way that students learn, it is not without its drawbacks. Innovations that allow correspondence to be conducted through regular post, utilising books, CD-ROMS, radio and television, have given the student a richer and more convenient learning experience, but they have failed to address one of the fundamental factors behind effective learning - 'face time'. Lack of face time with peers and tutors is often cited as one of major reasons why many students struggle with distance learning. Unlike in a traditional classroom setting where personal interaction forms an integral part of the leaning experience, distance learning does not provide for real-time feedback with tutors. Nor does it promote social interaction between students where they can exchange ideas and material, or engage in subject-based or other supportive dialogue. Many students struggle in isolation and often drop out because they are expected to navigate through a course that is primarily designed to suit the traditional campus based model of lectures and end of term exams, with little regard for what keeps students motivated and supported throughout the programme.

While students may receive a syllabus, books, and other course material, as well as pre-recorded audio and visual learning materials, many still have to venture to a physical location to sit exams or to attend tutorials to achieve rigorous assessment and interaction with others. Therefore the concept of a genuine "distance learning" course is often not the reality. Yet the world of distance learning is moving fast and the introduction over recent years of an integrated software application called a "Virtual Learning Environment" (VLE) has enabled distance learning providers to overcome many of these challenges.

According to UK-based business degree online course provider Kaplan Open Learning a Virtual Learning Environment is an integrated online learning platform that facilitates the management of educational courses for both students and teachers. By using the latest internet technology, providers like Kaplan Open Learning have created an online university degree programme that replicates a real classroom environment with a tutor and a classroom of students. The Virtual Learning Environment offers the benefits of distance learning without the drawbacks, providing students with the flexibility to attend classes and study from anywhere: work, home or even on the move. The system is designed to track and manage the learning process in real-time and it provides students with immediate access to learning materials. However, the real innovation is that this learning platform has created an environment in which both students and tutors can actively take part in real-time conversations and students can listen to, and view, live lectures and seminars over the internet. Regular assessment of students' work ensures their progress and engagement throughout the course. The Virtual Learning Environment also has other value-added communications features including discussion forums, chat, blogs, quizzes and exercises. Learning platforms allow education providers to organise their courses and bring together many teachers and learners around a single environment. The Virtual Learning Environment enhances distance learning techniques and opens up new learning and communication opportunities for students and staff after hours, off-site and in a range of informal settings including the home, work place, or on the move.

About the Author

Ogni Asuob is with Kaplan Distance Learning UK, the open learning university where you can study from home to gain a foundation online degree in business management & marketing.

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