Four Benefits of Distance Learning

What is Distance Learning?

Distance learning is one of the most popular education modalities globally. It has been gaining high acclaim because of its distinct approach, that is, the use of one or more technological platforms, as compared to physical teaching-learning pedagogy. In simple terms, distance learning is any form of remote learning where learners are not required to be physically present to attend lectures or classes. Today there are numerous courses offered worldwide that follow distance learning modality. Thanks to the growing access to the internet all around the globe, open and distance learning (also referred to as ODL) is booming, and it has definitely been growing at a fast pace. This has made the problems of geographical remoteness near to negligible for both students and teachers to engage in full time studies, research and creative learning.  

What makes it distinct from traditional pedagogy?

The major difference between traditional methods and distance learning is the fact that physical presence or attendance is not mandatory for learners nowadays. With the use of recorded sessions through E-learning and offline technology platforms, remotely located students can pursue their desired degrees at the comfort of their own home or workplace. 

Here are five major benefits of distance learning 

1. Time Value

The first benefit of distance learning is the highest value for time. Students can engage in professional and academic programs at their own times. Similarly, scheduling assignments and lessons can also be done with much ease due to the use of technology. Recorded sessions are available for review at later ties and this has made work life and professional life easy for learners engaged in distance learning. 

2. Flexibility

Another major comparative advantage of distance learning is the flexible nature of studies. Most of these courses can be taken both online and also reviewed offline through recordings. Course materials are easy to find and available all the time for access. Similarly, the ability to be able to study while at home or work or while traveling makes it one of the most flexible methods. 

3. Accessibility

Along with being flexible and self-paced, distance learning is gaining high popularity today because of the fact that courses can be accessed from anywhere, whether it be your office table or it be the comfort of your own homes, course materials are available both online and offline. Just imagine not having to miss your family vacation because of college work, imagine being able to have a glance at your degree while casually having dinner at home. Colleges in Nepal such as International Center for Academics (ICA) have been offering these courses for almost two decades now.

4. Cost Effectiveness

We might have often tried to search Google about how much does an average undergraduate degree cost? The answers to this are straightforward. You have the heavy tuition fees, admission costs and degree related costs. Then comes the unaccounted yet huge costs of living and board, transportation and food, travel insurances (if you are traveling abroad). Well what if you knew that you could choose to study your desired course for a really affordable amount and that just too without having to attend classes physically? Well it is possible and the answer is distance learning. Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) is one of the world’s largest universities offering distance learning courses globally. The International Centre for Academics (IGNOUatICA) has been offering IGNOU programs since the year 2002 in Nepal, as a proud pioneer of Open and Distance Learning. It would be a safe investment and the most cost effective way to enroll in one of such courses today.