Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, many were quickly introduced to distance learning. Even with things returning to normal, though, it is likely to continue to be an integral part of the lives of educators and students.
What Is Distance Learning?
The first type of distance learning that students had access to was correspondence courses. Students communicated with educators by mail. Now, distance learning has moved online. There are a variety of methods and systems that are used to connect students to educators in a virtual way.
Common Types of Distance Learning
Many distance learning resources like the ones from Adobe Education Exchange are available online. Some are more popular than others because they are easy to use and are supported by systems that educators and students already have in place.
Live video sessions and teleconferencing can be used with synchronous learning. Synchronous learning involves all students meeting at the same time to receive instruction by an educator.
Asynchronous learning involves giving students tasks that must be finished by a deadline. They will study on their own to complete the assignments.
Flexibility is seen with open schedule courses offered online. Live video sessions are scheduled that students can connect to. However, they don’t need to meet deadlines. Fixed-time online courses require educators and students to meet at a specific virtual location at a specific time. Anyone from around the world can connect and interact using this type of course.
Hybrid learning blends various types of distance learning. For example, a few students may be physically present with an educator while receiving a class. Other students will have the opportunity to connect virtually to the same class.
Reasons Why Distance Learning Is Important
Face-to-face contact between students and teachers allows them to connect in an authentic way. This can lead to strong understanding and rapport. However, there is much to be said about the importance of distance learning.
It offers easy access. Each student can improve themselves and learn in a way that is most effective for them. This is true no matter where they are located. Since there is more variety, educators can provide higher quality education. For example, they access the Adobe Education Exchange and get free distance learning lessons, resources, and activities for grades K-12.
Distance learning is effective. It has been shown to outperform the traditional classroom set up. It does especially well when it comes to a greater learning experience and better retention because state-of-the-art technology and multimedia content are used.
There is money and time savings associated with distance learning. Students can get the same quality of education and build a network without costs associated with commuting.
Personalization is another benefit that is seen with distance learning. Programs are often designed to help students enhance how they study. Depending on the student’s age and what they are studying, they can often choose a format that works for them.
Distance learning offers flexibility and high-quality education for individuals no matter their location. Because of the many benefits associated with it, distance learning will continue to be an integral part of education.