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Different Types of Distance Learning

Different types of distance learning have emerged with advances in technology. Synchronous distance learning allows for live communication online or by teleconference, while asynchronous learning has weekly deadlines but allows students to learn at their own pace using online boards. Hybrid learning combines these approaches, requiring students to meet at scheduled times while completing other work independently. Electronic learning delivers course materials via computer, while fixed time online courses require logging in at set times for interaction. Correspondence courses originally delivered materials by post, and open online courses give students flexibility to complete work within deadlines.

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684 views

Different Types of Distance Learning

Different types of distance learning have emerged with advances in technology. Synchronous distance learning allows for live communication online or by teleconference, while asynchronous learning has weekly deadlines but allows students to learn at their own pace using online boards. Hybrid learning combines these approaches, requiring students to meet at scheduled times while completing other work independently. Electronic learning delivers course materials via computer, while fixed time online courses require logging in at set times for interaction. Correspondence courses originally delivered materials by post, and open online courses give students flexibility to complete work within deadlines.

Uploaded by

ARPITA DUTTA
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Different Types of Distance

Learning
It is forecasted that by 2020, every education or training program
leading to a particular academic qualification will be available in three
different modes namely part time, full time, and through
distance learning. Often referred to distance education, distance
learning can be described as a method of education that is received
by a learner at another geographical location.

This form of education has increased access to learning opportunities


to individuals who cannot attend conventional classes on a daily basis
as well as to those with financial limitations. Besides that, distance
learning serves as an option for people who wish to expand their
knowledge base to boost their careers. By and large, it allows learners
to learn wherever and whenever they are as well as helping students
balance their education with career, family, and everything else they
do in life.

In the recent past, distance learning has advanced considerably since


the time of correspondence courses where the student would get
study resources through email and post. Despite the fact
correspondence courses do exist in today’s distance education, it will
soon be substituted by online courses thanks to the advent of
computers, digitalization, and improved internet technologies. The
latest developments in technology have typically led to an increase in
the emergence of various types of distance learning, which include
the following:
1. Synchronous distance learning
As we all know, 'synchronous' means‘at the same time’. In this context,
it is learning that involve live communication through either chatting
online, sitting in a classroom, or even teleconferencing. It is one of the
most acclaimed distance learning types that are most suitable for
engaging in continuing education programs. Besides that,
synchronous learning is preferable for degree programs that draw
attention to communication such as counseling psychology, nursing,
general education, and general psychology.

2. Asynchronous distance learning


Again, 'asynchronous' typically means‘not at the same time’. In this
regard, it is a type of learning that has a strict set of deadlines, often a
weekly time limit; however, it allows learners to learn at their own
pace. It is also one of the most popular distance learning types
because students can communicate with each other seamlessly
through online notice/bulletin boards. Programs and courses with
plenty of project and assignment work drive well in this format
because it provides learners with enough duration to focus on the
assigned work. Some of the regular degree programs offered by many
institutions through the above distance learning type include
marketing, legal assistant, advertising, healthcare administration, and
much more.

3. Hybrid distance learning


As the name suggests, hybrid distance learning combines
asynchronous and synchronous learning to form a structure where
learners are required to meet at a particular time in an internet chat-
room or a classroom. With this platform though, students are
required to complete their work at their own pace. Hybrid courses are
often offered when learning institutions lack enough space to
accommodate all their program course loads.

4. Electronic learning
Electronic learning is one of the most popular distance learning types,
often known as e-learning, which enables learners to access course
material(s) on a computer. DVDs, CDs, and different computer-based
tools are always used to deliver electronic learning courses.
5. Fixed time online courses
Fixed time online courses (or online learning) is another common type
of distance learning that requires learners have access to the internet.
As the name suggests, learners must log in to their official online
learning site at a particular time. Most people find online learning
more interactive than any other types of distance learning simply
because the option allows them to communicate directly with
instructors, tutors, and fellow students in real time with the help of
live chats or teleconferencing apps. One of the best teleconferencing
currently available is the ezTalks Cloud Meeting app. With this app,
students can be to download study materials, submit assignments,
complete assignments online, participate in virtual classes, and attend
webinars, and so on.

6. Correspondence learning
As earlier stated, correspondence learning is considered as the
earliest type of distance learning. With this option, students would
receive learning materials (which include study guides, textbooks,
assignments, and any other study materials) through the post. As
soon as they get required these documents, they are required work
through them at their own pace and in their own time. Depending on
the learning institution chosen, learners may be given a chance to
request instructor(s) or tutor(s) for help via telephone, e-mail, post, or
instant messaging.

7. Open schedule online courses


An open schedule online course is a type of online distance learning
option that gives learners greatest amount of freedom to complete
coursework provided through mailing lists, Internet-based textbooks,
bulletin boards, and e-mail. At the start of classes, the learners are
given a set of deadlines; however, they are allowed to work on their
coursework at their own pace so long the complete the within the
time limit. It is best learning options for learners who do not
procrastinate or work independently.

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