Chapter 12 Distance Education

Growth of Distance Education in the U.S.

Introduction to Distance Education

• The lecture begins by highlighting the significant growth of distance education at the post-secondary level in the United States.

• Questions posed: Can one earn a degree without attending a campus? Are there institutions that grant degrees without a physical campus?

Definition and History

• Distance education is defined as instruction occurring when instructor and student are separated by distance or time, or both.

• Historical context: Correspondence courses date back to 1840; University of Wisconsin offered its first correspondence catalog in 1892.

Modern Developments

• The evolution of technology has transformed distance education, with most programs now being online or incorporating online components.

• Growth statistics: From 93 accredited programs in 1994 to over 1,100 by 2003; more than 90% of large U.S. colleges offer such programs.

Reasons for Rapid Growth

Demand for Continuous Learning

• Economic changes necessitate ongoing skill upgrades for professionals, particularly in fields like engineering and computer science.

• Busy professionals often find traditional on-campus study inconvenient, leading to increased interest in distance education.

Institutional Challenges

• Many colleges face budget constraints while experiencing rising student numbers, prompting them to seek economical instructional methods.

Role of Technology

• Modern technology facilitates access to postsecondary education through various media formats (audio, video, etc.).

Modes of Delivery in Distance Education

Varied Instructional Methods

• Modes can vary significantly across courses; different technologies may be employed within a single course.

Common Modes Include:

• Video: Ranges from simple videotapes to interactive video conferencing.

• Audio: Involves audiotapes or audio conferencing for real-time interaction.

Asynchronous vs Synchronous Learning

• Asynchronous Learning: Students learn independently at their convenience using recorded materials.

• Synchronous Learning: Real-time engagement between instructors and students via video/audio conferencing.

Considerations for Prospective Students

Key Points Before Enrolling

1. Residency Requirements: Some programs may require on-campus attendance for certain courses or days during the program.

2. Time Limits: Courses typically have specific deadlines that must be adhered to throughout the program's duration.

Distance Education: Key Considerations

Overview of Distance Education Requirements

• Assignments in distance education must be submitted on time, similar to traditional education settings.

• Admissions requirements for distance learning mirror those of on-campus programs, ensuring consistency in educational standards.

• Students need access to a computer that meets specific technical requirements, including the latest operating system and adequate hardware specifications.

• The dropout rate for distance education is notably higher than that of traditional courses, indicating challenges in student retention and engagement.