What’s behind the Explosive Growth in Distance Learning?Written by Rose
Continued from page 1
87% of four-year colleges will offer distance-learning courses in 2004, up from 62% in 1998. According to International Data Corporation, 25% more colleges and universities added distance learning programs between 1998 and 2004.
By 2004, 2.2 million degree-seeking students are enrolled in distributed courses – CAGR of 33%. The growth of distance learning on a global scale has attention of companies as well – they plan on spending $272B in next five years on in-house training and education programs, according to International Data Corporation.
51% of all online courses worldwide have online discussion forms in 2001, growing to 65% in 2005. This is a sign of how quickly Internet’s performance is improving around world. The bandwidth required to support online discussions is great news for distance learning. Now even most geographically remote student can get education they want.
Summary
The implications are clear. Distance learning is growing rapidly and has been fortunate that many countries teach English in addition to their own native languages. What’s next on horizon of distance learning is offering courses and degrees in multiple languages. International Data Corporation predicts that by 2006, 65% of all Internet users will be international.
Rose is the editor of www.distance-learning-college-guide.com where you find answers, information and advice on distance learning colleges, accredited online degrees and online courses. See more related information at Just what is Distance Learning?
| | Is Pursuing a Degree Online really for you? Who Should and Who Should Not?Written by Rose Musyoka
Continued from page 1
Ability to commit up to 10 hours a week to course. Stanford’s study show that best students don’t necessarily put in longest hours; they are ones that make most of hours they commit. The minimum amount of time Stanford found students could spend per week on entry-level courses was 4 hours per week; for graduate-level courses, 15 hours or more.
Confidence in sharing their own experiences. Many of respondents to Stanford said that best classes were marked by other students sharing their own experiences. The willingness to share experiences makes for best online classes, and this is substantiated by Stanford study.
Like to write. Stanford found this as a definite requirement, but critical to success of anyone in an online program. Writing is primary means by which student’s interaction with each other and their instructors is achieved, so this is also important to keep in mind. Bottom Line:
The Stanford survey shows that more independent and focused a student is, more successful they will be in distance learning programs. Writing is also important, as is willingness to contribute to classes.
Rose Musyoka is the editor of www.distance-learning-college-guide.com where you find answers, information and advice on distance learning colleges, accredited online degrees and online courses. See more related information at distance learning benefits
|
