Developments in distance learning education

Distance learning, which has become very popular over the past few years, has been in existence since 1873 when Anna Ticknor started teaching through correspondence. In 24 years, more than 10,000 persons followed her courses.

From 1883 to 1891, the Chautauqua College of Liberal Arts in New York was granted permission to offer courses in this format. This was the first official recognition of distance education.

Although this form of education persisted during these years, technology and transportation have changed its dynamics. Malta is not an exception and distance learning has become highly popular with local students, post-graduates and people who are already in the work field.

Technology has brought people closer together, helping them communicate efficiently, effectively and directly. Education has therefore become more accessible, overcoming the geographical impasse. However, certain courses still need to be accompanied by practice, such as the medical and engineering courses.

Universities have developed their websites to include electronic libraries, webboards and teleconferencing facilities, enabling direct contact with tutors and classrooms. The electronic campus has done away with the expensive and time-consuming physical mobility.

Those who like the "on campus" experience and the social life that university life brings with it may miss this experience on the online world. However, students can still communicate on the webboard and get to know each other through online chats and other forms of communication.

Despite some shortcomings, distance learning cannot be ignored or depreciated. The trick is self-discipline and staying focused with a clear objective. It offers flexibility and accessibility, and an opportunity for those who cannot go abroad or cannot leave work.

Advantages and limitations of distance learning

• You can work at your own pace but you need to be disciplined and organised.

• Online degrees are equivalent to tuition-based courses but are not always recognised as equivalent.

• You can "go to class" whenever and wherever you are but you need to use your time diligently to meet deadlines.

• The choice of distance learning courses has increased, but some courses are and need to be tuition-based.

• Dialectic and dialogue is part of the university education which cannot be completely replaced by e-mails, chat or other forms of communication.

• Online or distance learning education is less expensive than traditional education.

• Most distance learning does not require or requires minimal travelling. On the other hand, this might require highly developed technology according to the format of the tuition.

Mr Cappitta, MBA, MIA, CPA, is managing director of the European Institute of Education, a higher and tertiary education institute licensed by the Ministry of Education, Youth and Employment.

website: www.eieonline.com;

e-mail: info@eieonline.com.