by D.C. Cushman

Created on: July 11, 2008

Distance Education (DE) is an important step towards a more efficient education process. Here are the Top 10 Things one should know:

1. Many traditional universities and colleges that have been nationally accredited for decades (and even centuries) are now offering DE courses. Looking into this variation of classroom learning is now easier than ever. Community colleges are the biggest supplier of DE courses, and can now offer even more degrees than before.

2. Certificates, Bachelors and Masters Degree programs are all available in DE.

3. Many DE courses can fulfill all, or a good portion, of your credits for just about every degree offered at that school. Chances are you will need very few (if any) actual classroom classes instead of the virtual classroom.

4. DE courses are generally simplistic and straightforward, as opposed to an actual classroom setting. You get all your lectures, notes, and assignments in writing. No longer do you need to worry about copying down a professor's thoughts or emphatic points. If can be helpful to print all information out, or save it on a hard drive so you have access to it at all times, even when not logged into the virtual classroom.

5. Getting help is extremely easy. Instructors almost always set up a Q&A section where you can get answers to your questions. Generally, DE courses will have TAs, study groups, chat rooms, and instant messaging available. Often, there is even a class list where you can contact others in your class via email.

6. De courses require critical thinking. Unfortunately, it is incredibly easy for a person to plagerize or find answers quickly online. DE courses require students to use critical thinking that often requires research, essay format answers, and personal opinion. It can be hard work, but the results are usually more positive than in the classroom. More essays and research papers are assigned than in a normal classroom.

7. Your accomplishments and assignments get regular feedback. You don't always get the one on one time you crave with an instructor traditionally; however DE instructors regularly follow up with students and track their work and input to make sure they really understand the material.

8. DE courses may offer online library services. This is an excellent way to conduct research. You can find books, journals, articles, periodicals, and more. Some universities team up and create a place where you can search several libraries to find information you need. You can have the text e-mailed, find citations for bibliographies, and search effectively using Boolean. The online libraries that you get access to through DE are vital and helpful.

9. DE can be expensive. Make sure you check into how much the courses cost, books and other materials cost.

10. DE is incredibly convenient. You can go anywhere in the world, and with internet access, be able to log into your classroom. You can do your work at your own pace, and on your own time. Deadlines are crucial in DE, but the restriction of having to be in a place at a certain time is no longer an issue.

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