WHAT IS DISTANCE EDUCATION

Distance learning – also referred to as ‘online learning’ – is an alternative route to studying a degree course offered by a university. Instead of attending lectures and seminars on campus, you study at home or work. All teaching, materials, and support are delivered online.

You submit assessments online too.

Distance learning is far more flexible. Courses are broken down into bitesize modules, each worth a certain number of credits and study hours. You’re awarded credits as you complete each module, until you’ve achieved the total credits for the course.

The flexible and independent nature of distance learning often appeals to those whose circumstances prevent them from studying on campus, at a fixed pace, for several years. This might be due to a full-time job, or other responsibilities, such as caring for dependents. However, there are many students who can benefit from distance learning.

While you don’t experience the same ‘campus culture’, distance learning offers a legitimate and practical route to achieving a recognised degree qualification.

A distance learning degree is a massive commitment. So seriously consider your decision, before applying. This means getting a full understanding of what a course involves, and weighing this up against your lifestyle, as well as what you want to get out of it.

Don’t get confused with other types of distance learning…

When we talk about ‘distance learning’ or ‘online learning’ here, we’re referring to degree courses offered by a university or higher education provider, that are taught online. That means you study the same course as a (full or part-time) student studying on campus, and you achieve the same qualification.

This is important to clarify, because there are all sorts of online courses which do not lead to a degree. While these can help you develop skills and knowledge in a subject – and may be delivered in a similar format – these are completely different. One popular example is ‘Massive Open Online Courses’ (MOOCs): short courses that are free to access online through universities and private providers, but don’t result in a formal qualification.

This is also different from a campus-based degree course that has been moved online temporarily as a result of mitigating circumstances, such as the recent coronavirus outbreak.

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