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Distance learning is broadly defined as learning that occurs at a distance, with teacher and student separated by space and/or time. Distance courses can be delivered through television, written communications, the Internet, or a combination of these media. One of the most stimulating developments in the World Wide Web is the ever-increasing quantity and quality of distance learning courses. Access to educational opportunities is expanding like never before and this article will spotlight this type of distance learning, i.e., courses delivered through the World Wide Web.

The World Wide Web has expanded educational horizons for a multitude of students, but challenges and failures abound. Distance learning students can optimize their potential for success by bearing in mind three critical areas:
I. technical considerations
II. instructional course requirements, and
III. personal characteristics common to successful online learners.

I. TECHNICAL CONSIDERATIONS
Problems with hardware and software are a major source of frustration for students and their teachers. Common technical considerations include:

Internet Connection
Do you need a high speed connection? If the course material is primarily text or simple audio files, a slow connection is adequate. If videos or highly interactive websites are used, a high speed connection is highly recommended.

Type of computer operating system
Some courses require that you use a specific type of operating system, i.e., Macintosh, Windows, or Linux. Various academic disciplines favor one type over the other, while many disciplines are flexible and have no such constraint.

Type of software
If the course is in a specialized field, it may require specialized software or the instructor may dictate the type of software because of his or her own personal preference. For example, some instructors require papers to be submitted in Microsoft Word format or WordPerfect format. Some will accept general formats like rich text format or plain text format; most word processors will allow you to save a document in these universal formats.

Professional courses in areas such as architectural drafting, graphic design, website design, photography, or computer programming may require professional software. These programs can be expensive and should be taken into account before you enroll. Online students who live near the institution offering the course may also have access to campus computer labs whose computers have the required software.

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