What is Distance Learning?The difference between Distance Learning and Self Study, and why it matters

What is Distance Learning?The difference between Distance Learning and Self Study

, and why it matters

History of Distance Learning

The first distance learning can be traced back to the 18th Century, in the form of correspondence courses', which became increasingly popular with the development of the postal system throughout the 19th century.

Distance learning was born out of the difficulty many people had in accessing education either due to ill health, inability to travel, financial problems, working or family commitments or being unable to attend institutions due to restrictions on the admission of women.

Since then, education has probably become more easily accessible than ever before. However, distance learning still serves a useful purpose as a means for those who are unable to attend physical classes to study and gain qualifications. Its flexibility and convenience has meant that distance learning has gone from strength to strength over its 250 year history, and it is more popular now than ever before.

Distance Learning vs. Self Study

There's a world of difference between distance learning and self study, although the two are often confused.

Self study courses are based around self-directed learning. On a self study course, you will be provided with the materials and textbooks necessary to complete the course and left to work through them at your own pace, taking exams and submitting coursework when you think you're ready. You'll likely receive little or no feedback, and while you may be able to contact somebody for help it's likely that this facility will be limited to a set number of hours per month. Because they require less interaction, self study courses typically cost less than more structured distance learning courses, but there can be pitfalls, especially if you are not used to studying or are nervous about completing your chosen course alone.

Distance learning has much more in common with traditional classroom-based learning than it does with self study it aims to give the same level of tuition, the only difference being that student does not attend a physical location to study. You'll be given a timetable, set tasks to complete and given deadlines for the submission of work and assignments. All your work will be checked by your tutor, and you'll be given regular feedback to help you improve and to make sure that you understand the course.

The major difference between self study and distance learning is communication. In distance learning, communication is key as a distance learning student you will not be left to work through your chosen course alone, but will be supported and advised every step of the way, just as if you were attending a traditional college course.

Why is distance learning better?

Studying a course via true distance learning rather than via self study has numerous benefits:

Regular contact with your tutor will help you stay on track and motivated on your chosen course, and reduce the chances of you falling behind in your studies

You'll be given advice from somebody who understands the syllabus to help you decide when you've reached the right standard to take exams and submit assignments self study will usually require you to make this decision yourself, and risk failing and incurring costs for re-sits if you misjudge and take your exams before you're ready

You'll submit tasks and coursework regularly, so that your tutor can make sure you understand what you're learning fully and pick up on any misunderstandings early

You'll know your tutor and they'll know you, meaning they can understand your strengths and weaknesses and tailor their tuition to suit your level of knowledge and experience

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