I have been a fan of distance learning since its creation! I'm not sure who invented the idea or implemented it in schools but they were on to something for sure. I remember when I started college over 20 years ago, when the internet was still known as the worldwide web, I enrolled in a distance learning class that would satisfy as a general ed course. The course was taught through video taped lectures and audio tapes, along with books. The class met every 6 weeks for a full day to go through coursework and address any questions that students would have. The classes lasted a full semester and you received 3 credit hours that were transferable upon completion. I knew then that would be the only way I could attend school and the correspondence approach to courses would allow me to get my college education, work and contend with being a single mother.
Today distance learning has evolved into online course ranging from every subject and extending far beyond just general education classes. Classes can be anywhere from 7-8 weeks or as long as 14 weeks. The evolution of the internet connects students from around the globe to schools of various majors and studies that produce sought after degrees in many fields. The easy of learning in your own home or an environment that is conducive to your schedule allows so many working adults to return to school and encourages younger students to stay connected. Now there is no excuse and learning has never been easier nor has obtaining a higher education. I just finished registering for my final semester at ASU to complete my bachelors. I am taking all my classes online because I have to work and keep up with my two teenagers.
I just want to say thank you first of all. You are one of the many unsung and unseen heroes in society that make it possible to say you can have everything if you at least tried. As a younger student I have never experienced a college life that did not include computers and I honestly wouldn't have it any other way. It has been such a blessing in being able to stay home and work and earn my degree! Hope your internship will continue to go well and help you achieve your degree!
ReplyDeleteHi Aj,
ReplyDeleteI completely agree with you - I'm not sure what we would do without distance learning. I realized the importance of distance learning when a friend of mine was working full time to make ends meet but still wanted to earn a Bachelor's degree. My experience with online learning has been fantastic so far! I've taken at least 2 - 3 online courses since I started my MPA. My only advise to those taking online classes is to read over the syllabus plenty of times and create a to do list for each week. It's very easy to forget upcoming deadlines when you don't have a face-to-face class every week. In addition to online classes, I also think condensed classes (7 weeks) are great as they allow you take on a greater course load without prolonging on the process.