by Carissa Kane

Created on: February 20, 2009

In a world that is moving toward becoming a global village through the mechanisms of globalization, distant learning has become possible. This really is, sitting in the convenience of your home country and home for that matter and being able to obtain academic qualification. Through rapid technological advancements the world is becoming more and more accessible and literally at your finger tips. However, in choosing the route of distant learning one has to look at both sides of the coin.

Face up, there are numerous advantages that are achieved from distant learning. The obvious one is convenience. You can take your courses when you need them and not have to work with a semester schedule. A course is as close as a computer with an Internet connection.

Flexibility is another benefit. With no set class times, you decide when to complete your assignments and readings. You set the pace. In some programs, you can even design your own degree plan.

From the perspective of cost there is also a plus. Prices are often cheaper for on-line courses than traditional college and trade courses and off with no housing or meals plans to worry about.

Availability is not an issue as distance-learning opportunities have exploded over the past few years, with many accredited and reputable programs. Coupled with this is accessibility. With an on-line course, you can work on the course just about anywhere you have computer access. These distant learning programs are designed in such a way that it doesn't matter where you are, a reliable Internet service and you computer is all you need.

Distance learning is Self-Directed in that you set your own pace and schedule, so you control the learning environment. This is especially beneficial to those you like to move faster than the rest. There is no waiting for the teacher or lecturer to reach a particular. You work to suite you. In a similar manner, there is no worry that you will fall behind because your pace is slower that everyone else's. No hassle. Just smooth sailing.

With these programs there is no interrupting job/career. Since distance learning courses are located in cyberspace and controlled by your pace, there is no need to quit your current job or even take a leave of absence to go back to school. Therefore, it caters for the working parent or the full time student. Usually it allows full time students the opportunity to have a part-time job. This means that they are able to gain valuable hands-on and work experience while simultaneously

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