Distance learning is a wonderful medium for interaction with other students. Age is no barrier, so whether you are 17 or 70, you have the opportunity of meeting other like-minded people, and have an affinity with them because of a common interest.
Anonymity is a major advantage, as you are able to chat naturally to the other student without feeling intimidated by them. Some people can be rather aloof, which may be the result of nervousness, but gives the impression they want to distance themselves from others. Being able to chat on-line can help tear down those barriers as they feel more comfortable in their own environment.
If a student is shy and feels unable to cope with the crowds and the rushing back and forth at a university or college, distance learning is the ideal solution for them. It builds confidence and enables the student to make friends they would not otherwise have done because of their shyness.
Interacting with other students via distance learning can be a rewarding experience as there is always someone who is just starting a course and can not find their way around the site. This is an opportunity to assist that student to get their footing and create a bond between you, which may become a continuing friendship.
Some students go through the same course together, and some catch up with friends further on in the course. It is great to find someone you knew from a previous unit, as you will feel more comfortable asking advice, or discussing the subject at hand.
There is also the chance you may find someone who lives in your area but you have never met. This gives you the opportunity to actually meet them if you feel comfortable in your on-line conversations. Once you have created a bond and you both consider it the right step to take, meeting face to face can help in the study process as well as making a new friend.
As a mature student, I have found distance learning a great experience and have interacted with many students from different parts of the world. Understanding other cultures and other student's experiences has taught me as much as the course I am studying. I have met other students who are treading different paths but have created a bond between us and have regular contact.
To anyone who is considering taking a distance learning course, I would highly recommend it for the social interaction as well as the educational aspect. It is a very enjoyable experience.