distance learning

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Questions And Answers

1. What are the most widely used and respected accreditation organizations?

There are numerous accrediting agencies that have the capacity to evaluate schools and programs. Those that are recognized or licensed by the United States Department of Education would be first tier organizations. Accrediting services such as the Distance Learning Accreditation Board (DLAB) provided by the United States Distance Learning Association is recognized for ensuring best practices and standards of excellence.

2. Are admission requirements different for online degree programs?

Admission requirements for online programs should be the same as those required for face-to-face classes. Legitimate educational institutions, public and private, must guarantee the legitimacy of any educational offering. This is imperative in order to avoid diploma mills and other illegitimate programs.

3. Are online degrees as well respected as degrees at brick & mortar institutions?

Online degrees, when accredited, carry the same value and worth as traditional brick and mortar universities. The key factor for students is to be sure to attend those schools that represent high standards of excellence.

4. Do online students have to consider whether they are in-state residents for online programs; or are the tuition rates the same?

Tuition rates vary according to whether schools have separate in-state or out-of-state pricing standards. In addition, private versus public institution costs come into play. Usually in-state tuitions for public universities are the same as is the rate for private national universities.

5. On average do students put in the same amount of time for online courses as traditional classes?

Students usually put in the same amount or sometimes even more for online courses. Students must be disciplined, have the ability to work independently and be available to participate in required electronic chats, threaded discussions and other forms of communication.

6. What are the most popular degree programs offered online?

Numerous degree programs are offered online. Business, education, technology, criminal justice, nursing and health are the most common.

7. Where will distance learning be in five years?

Distance learning will continue to grow exponentially over the next five years. Not only will more universities and schools offer various programs but also traditional undergraduate programs will integrate more distance learning classes and courses into their programs. Future traditional programs will become more hybrid incorporating more distant learning classes and technologies into the student experience.

The United States Distance Learning Association, www.usdla.org, the world’s “leading distance learning organization” with over five thousand members defines distance learning as “the acquisition of knowledge and skills through mediated information and instruction, encompassing all technologies and other forms of learning at a distance.” With USDLA’s primary mission being to serve the needs of the distance learning community by providing advocacy, information networking and opportunity, the association understands the needs of all learners when they search for quality distance learning programs and courses. As students, whatever program, college or university, you choose, make sure the end product represents excellence and best practices. Quality distance learning programs must include competent instructors who know their subject and understand distance learning techniques, technology implementation, instructional design and student services. Interactivity between teacher and student and among students must be consistent. Support services which include on-line libraries, student help desks, bookstores, and overall comprehensive program services are required. These components will confirm a quality program that will produce distance learning opportunities for students that result in quality degree and certificate programs. Earning a degree through distance learning has much value. New career opportunities, higher salaries, new fields of study coupled with convenience, anywhere, anytime, makes distance learning programs the choice for many of today’s students.

USDLA in 2004, will launch the Distance Learning Accreditation Bureau, a USDLA service that will accredit and certify distance learning programs in order to ensure best practices and levels of excellence. Schools and individuals should contact USDLA for more information on this service at 1-800-275-5162.

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