Online distance learning is an educational process where learners receive information related to courses through virtual classes, video recordings, video conferencing, or any other visual/audio medium. It empowers learners to receive an education without being physically present in a classroom.
Properly designed online distance learning programs can prove to be a very effective and convenient way to acquire skills and knowledge. It might seem difficult without students and teachers interacting physically, but people signing up for distance learning can learn as much as those in traditional classrooms.
Moreover, distance education is not a recent phenomenon. We can trace its origins to the advent of the modern postal system and printed publications’ mass production, which made it easy to spread information rapidly worldwide.
Distance Learning Categories
Distance learning mainly falls into two major categories, namely
- Synchronous
- Asynchronous.
So let us take a closer look at the difference between the two categories (Synchronous vs Asynchronous) as most distance learning types fall into these camps.
Synchronous vs. Asynchronous Distance Learning
Here’s what these forms of learning have to offer:
Synchronous
Synchronous learning happens simultaneously, referring to an education delivery method that occurs in real-time. It requires live communication and uses technology such as teleconferencing.
Hence, synchronous learning is less flexible than other forms of distance education because it requires students to meet their teachers and sometimes their peers at a pre-scheduled time.
It, in turn, limits students’ ability to learn at their own pace. Moreover, it might frustrate students who crave asynchronous classrooms’ freedom and they face a learning challenge.
Asynchronous
As far as asynchronous education is concerned, students receive clusters of weekly deadlines. Thus, they have the freedom to work at their own speed. Also, it comes with more opportunities for students to interact. For example, they can access course content beyond the classroom and interact through online conversations, video comments on their own schedule, or quizzes.
Both learners and teachers benefit from the flexibility of asynchronous learning as it enables them to create and consume content whenever they want. You can access these learning materials at any time and anywhere.
It aids instructors in dealing with hectic and unpredictable schedules and extends lessons beyond scheduled meetings or live sessions through pre-recorded video lectures and other content.
Instructors can leverage live recordings or videos to obtain analytics, generate captions, have discussions, assign quizzes, and integrate content into LMS. Remote learning is now becoming necessary and has to go parallel with other forms.
Additionally, asynchronous teaching methods motivate learners to review content anytime and on any device. Students can refer to the lessons, study for exams, and have discussions. Therefore, self-paced learning accommodates varied learning needs and contributes to students’ success.
Synchronous-Asynchronous Learning
While there’s always a need for virtual live sessions, an asynchronous way of communication extends this live interaction beyond a particular class. With advancements in technology, different trends of online learning are also emerging and getting attention.
For instance, instructors can do much better with recordings than having a single zoom meeting with students. Instead, they can post the Zoom session recording for rewatching, obtain analytics on participation, interact around the content, add quizzes, have discussions, generate captions for accessibility, or integrate with an LMS.
Types of Distance Learning
There are various types of distance learning. Some approaches are synchronous, some are asynchronous, while others fall into both categories. These types include;
- Hybrid distance education
- Video conferencing
- Fixed-time online courses
- Open schedule online courses
Let’s explore what each type entails.
1. Hybrid Distance Education
Hybrid distance learning combines synchronous and asynchronous approaches. Learners receive deadlines to complete assignments and exams. They then work according to their schedule.
Students submit assignments through online forums. They stay in touch with their instructors, yet they continue to work at their own pace. As learners make progress, they get access to new modules.
Students who love independence thrive with this form of online distance learning.
2. Video Conferencing
Video conferencing refers to a meeting where two or more people use video to connect over the internet. It falls under the category of synchronous communication. Using tools such as Zoom, Adobe Connect, Blackboard Collaborate, or any other conferencing software, instructors and learners interact with each other no matter where they are on Earth.
This type of online distance learning technique enhances student-teacher interactions. It also provides a structure for lesson planning.
3. Fixed-Time Online Courses
The most common format used for online distance learning is fixed-time online courses. Learners log in to the learning platforms at designated times. They are expected to complete pre-scheduled classroom activities and assignments at a specific pace.
Usually, these activities include chats and discussion forums. Fixed-time online courses encourage student interaction, but they lack self-pacing.
4. Open Schedule Online Courses
Open schedule online instruction comes under the asynchronous form of communication. These courses provide students with a lot of freedom. Students receive online textbooks, emails, bulletin boards, and more to complete their coursework.
Teachers give students a set of deadlines and then set them free to work at their own pace. So, learners who value learning independently excel in this format. However, it requires significant motivation, self-discipline, and proper management of time.
Students who lack the motivation and the right skillset may find themselves in deep trouble. In addition, the presentation of the material may leave them overwhelmed.
Value of Online Distance Learning
Distance education was once considered an inferior substitute for traditional learning. However, many now believe that it performs better than traditional classroom instruction. It is because of video and technology. The use of videos makes distance learning feel personable, aiding in keeping students engaged. It contributes to students’ academic success and has become a vital part of long-term educational strategies.
Benefits of Distance Learning
There are many benefits of distance learning. They may differ based on synchronous or asynchronous course structures. Here are the advantages of remote education that make it a valuable alternative to in-person learning.
Flexibility
Distance education courses offer flexibility. It may vary depending on the course structure, but mainly, students set their schedules and take classes in their preferred location.
Self-Inspiration
Students who rely on an internal source of motivation excel in distance learning courses. It encourages them to stay disciplined and take on greater responsibility. They are then required to stay well-organized and perform well in online settings.
Easy access & Adaptability
Work and home responsibilities can get in the way of attending traditional classes for some. So, for those people, education is easily accessible through online distant learning. Learners need only a computer and an internet connection.
Also, instructors can tailor the learning course to match students’ diverse academic needs. Hence, the students have the freedom to learn anywhere at their convenience, making distance education an adaptable learning experience.
Earn & Save
People working full-time jobs couldn’t continue their education and update their professional skills. Online distance learning allows students to meet their educational goals in the evening or on weekends.
Moreover, they can save money and time as they won’t have to worry about travel time and expenses. The cost related to gas, car maintenance, parking, childcare, and textbooks is also saved thanks to valuable online courses.
Virtual Trips
Distance education enables students to take virtual trips. These trips allow learners to experience places related to their curriculum. Students can learn in interactive ways through such experiences.
These trips are an exciting and interactive tool for instructors to increase student engagement.
Drawbacks of Distance Learning
The advantages of distance learning are clear, but some warning signs come with it.
Distance education poses a higher risk of online distraction; without in-person meetings, students can lose track of deadlines and motivation. Learners who work well independently can overcome these obstacles, but those who have trouble prioritizing and lack organizational and scheduling skills may stumble.
Additionally, not all students have access to a reliable computer and internet connection, putting them at a disadvantage. A slow internet connection can hamper their ability to participate online, watch videos, or teleconference.
What the future holds?
Most teachers aren’t confident they can make online courses as effective as their face-to-face classes. However, students will most likely suffer if the professors cram traditional methods into online courses.
We understand that teaching online is intimidating. But we want this process to be successful. So, engaging your students through videos is the best way to do it.
There are dozens of platforms offering video content around lectures. SimpliTaught is one of them!
It provides video lectures on various topics and helps students interact with each other and their instructors when needed.
Read more:
Successful distance learning strategies for teachers
