Distance Education means studying a course without attending on-campus classes or regular lectures in the classrooms. Recently, this system has become popular, thanks to the easy availability of internet in every corner of the globe. There are several reasons behind the success of Distance Education. Such as, encouragement towards digital India, availability of lectures even to the students living in remote areas, lesser expenses and many more.
Features of Distance Education:
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Flexibility-
The best thing about distance education is that, the school provides various means such as website platform, applications, etc. to attend lectures which are also known as E-learning. Since these lectures are available on the platform all the time, students can access them as per their preference.
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Various multimedia forms-
Here, we mean to say that distance education is not all about listening to the lectures only, these days. Presentations, audio clips, images, etc. are used to increase the engagement and to make learning easy.
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Cost saving-
The cost saving term is actually meant for everyone related to this industry. The institutes that provides Distance Education doesn’t have to pay for infrastructure, electricity and other such amenities. Similarly, students can save on travel expenses. As a result, distance education is a brilliant cost-saving way of gaining education.
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Variety-
Generally, people have a myth that distance education programs available online are exclusively short-duration courses or certificate courses but that is absolutely incorrect. Apart from these courses, students can opt for Bachelor’s Degrees, Master’s Degrees and PhD Degrees, too.
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Reliable resources-
Any student that wishes to take up such courses must consider the resources at their disposal. For instance, a computer or laptop with a working internet connection is a must for you to pursue distance education. In case of special courses such as designing, additional software might be required. Thus, one should check the requirements for a course before applying.
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Routine-
Another important part of distance education is managing the daily routine. For efficient learning and good results, you should create a timetable that balances your studies well with your day-to-day chores. You must follow this routine strictly to make the most out of your distance learning program while meeting your other commitments.
What after Distance Learning?
To begin with, there is no major difference between Distance Learning and Classroom Learning except for mode of learning. Many people assume that the distance learning is not effective or genuine but these are mere misconceptions. More people today are turning towards distance education as it not only allows a student to make the most of the best institutes in the world but also gives them a chance to do from the comfort of their space. Various websites have series of lectures recorded by foreign experts and teachers for specific courses as well as degrees under Distance Education Programs, who would not be accessible to students that cannot afford going to those universities.
Is it a reliable option?
Certainly, it is a reliable option. Various universities and institutions are actively introducing Distance Learning Programs. Every such organization or institute that provides such programs are well established as per the norms, rules and regulations of the government. However, we request you to verify the genuineness of any organization whose distance learning program you are enrolling for.
Options in India:
Finally, we would also like to leave with the names of a few top universities of India which offers Distance Learning Education-
- Indira Gandhi National Open University
- Yashwantrao C. Maharashtra Open University
- Sikkim Manipal University
- Symbiosis Centre for Distance Learning
- MP Bhoj (Open) University
- Netaji Shubash Open University
- University of Delhi
- University of Mumbai
- Dr. BR Ambedkar Open University
- Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Open University
