Distance learning is basically learning from a distance. It is a relatively new field which has evolved dramatically as a result of the invention of the world wide web. While there was a time, historically, that teachers and learners all had to be in the same room together, this is no longer the case. The goal of distance education is to provide learning opportunities to those who are not actually physically present in the same geographic location. While there have historically been some forms of distance education, the current and evolving technologies have changed everything. For example, there was at one time a form of distance education where the postal service would deliver some educational correspondence, including information, as well as tests.
The learner would then also respond via the same postal service. With the advent of the world wide web, however, it did not take long before new possibilities emerged. These amazing possibilities seem to be fueled by distance learning software. Distance learning software enables both teacher and learners to come together in a collaborative effort through technology. Most, if not all, universities now offer some form of distance learning through the world wide web. In fact, many of these universities offer entire degrees online. The greatest convenience of having a true distance learning situation is that it is possible for a teacher to be in one location and the students may be spread between a variety of geographic locations throughout the globe. Truly, the only real need is for the students to have access to a computer as well as the world wide web. Not only does distance learning software make it possible for geographic boundaries to disappear while learning, but also boundaries of time.
For example, some distance learning software allows for the recording of a lecture, and individuals can actually watch the lecture later as it is saved to the site that has been designed for such purposes. Some distance learning does take place in a live situation, however. One example of this is through videoconferencing or web conferencing. This requires audio and video equipment, but allows for a variety of students to be spread out in different locales while still being able to collaborate with one another as well as the professor in a live manner. Asynchronous learning, however, is that which takes place where learners participate at will as a part of their own designed schedule. These typically require well developed software which will allow for message boards and chat rooms. These forms of communication are very important when students are not actually meeting face to face with other students or the professor.
For example, a student who runs into a problem or glitch with an assignment will need to email the professor or other students, or will be able to leave a post which can then be answered by the other students. This can be especially beneficial, because when one student has a question, it is usually likely that other students do as well. Posting the question and answer will then be beneficial to all. Distance learning software usually also includes the ability to post assignments as well as grades. This is something above and beyond simply emailing an assignment to the professor. When using email, there are typically a number of problems with students and professors having differing software programs, and it is often difficult to open attachments for this reason. When the appropriate distance learning software is used, however, it will ensure that all users are completing the same format, and the professor will be able to easily access student assignments. Conversely, students will be easily able to access their grades and future assignments.