Distance Education: Is a virtual Classroom for You?

Part 4 of 4

Emphasis on the written word

Most of the communication, as well as the course work, in distance learning classes are written. That is a plus, because the focus on the written word gives you the opportunity to develop as a writer – and strong writing skills are essential to academic success. However, if writing is a serious weakness for you, virtual learning may not be the best educational option until you improve your skills. Yes, most of distance education is the written word; therefore you need to be a good reader, love to read, and also love writing. Most of your assignments will be written and submitted to the instructor in the written format. Your penmanship needs to be excellent, spelling great, sentence structure above average, vocabulary extraordinary. You need to have online access with reliable equipment. If your internet communications at home isn’t working, you can’t do online education from your home and will need to go someplace where you do have access to the internet.

Decide whether it is Right for You

Distance education is not for everyone, but it might just before you. You really should seek it out and give it a try. You never know until you try. You might even fall in love with distance education. While distance education might be the perfect alternative for some students, it is not the right choice for everyone. So carefully consider your unique needs and interests and give distance education a try; then, decide if it is right for you.

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Distance education: Is a Virtual Class for you?

Part 3

Challenging Aspects of Distance Education

·         Lack of in person interaction: Some educators argue that both teacher-student and student-teacher contact are essential to learning. In Distance- learning classrooms, you may be able to participate in class discussions online in chat rooms, message boards or Web conferences -- but it’s not the same being with other students in a classrooms.

·         Different levels of quality: Much distance education programs supply an excellent learning experience, but others may not. Research any program before signing on to make sure it is rigorous enough. If you are choosing your own program, look into its accreditation before enrolling.

·         The need to self-start: Distance education lets you make your own schedules. If you have a hard time getting motivated, this might not be the ideal education setting for

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Distance education: Is a Virtual Classroom for you?

Part 2

Positive aspects of Distance Education

·         Independence and time management: Taking courses online lets you hone your ability to work on your own. You also gain experience in managing your time efficiently.

·         A flexible schedule: Schools can only provide a certain number of class periods in a single school day, and there may not be enough time for you to take everything you want. But distance education lets you take classes outside regular school hours; it gives you the flexibility to explore all your areas of interest.

·         Advanced and specialized classes: Some schools can’t provide advance or specialized classes. Distance education gives you the chance to gain experience in areas that would otherwise remain out of reach

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Distance Education: Is a Virtual classroom for you

Part 1

Collegeboard.com/student/plan/high-school/47227.html

You may want to take a class that your high school does not offer.  

Distance education means taking a class without being physically present where it is being taught. Internet based technology lets students participate in lectures and class sessions online from almost anywhere.

Some high schools agree to recognize distance learning credits when they font have the resources to offer a course themselves. Distance education is often used to increase options in rural areas and for AP Courses.

For you, it might mean doing self tutorial at home in the evening , or participating in a class that is 1.000 miles, or participating in a class that is 1,000 miles away, along with other high schools students. Check with your school counselor to see what is available.

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