Your Guide to Distance Learning

When it comes to distance learning, there’s so much information out there. There are plenty of websites that have tried to make sense of it all, but the volume of information can be hard to digest. What works and what doesn’t work? The following guide aims to answer these questions while also showing you a path forward on your educational journey.

What is distance learning?

Over the last two years, as many were forced to stay indoors, the landscape of distance learning boomed. Whether it was to upskill or learn something completely new, more people partook in distance online learning classes than ever before. Let’s break down the concept of distance learning.

Distance learning is a process by which a form of teaching is delivered at a distance, as opposed to traditional face-to-face instruction. This form of education is often accomplished through video conferencing, online discussion boards, e-learning courses, and virtual classrooms.

Choosing a distance learning college

Choosing a distance learning college is a major decision that should not be taken lightly. Students will need to take into account the type of education they want, as well as the flexibility and financial considerations for their situation. Distance learning colleges offer an alternative to the traditional classroom setting. These institutions allow students to take courses from home, as long as they can meet the prerequisites.

What do you need to do distance learning

Of course, when looking into distance learning, you’ll likely need to ensure you have a few things at home, other than just a quiet place to study. Let’s go through some of the physical and personality traits that are required from you when you’re considering distance learning options.

Reliable internet access is an absolute must when looking into doing an online distance learning course, then of course a PC, laptop or smartphone. Often the interaction happens via pre-recorded, or sometimes, live videos. Ensure whatever technology and internet connection you’re using are capable of accessing learning material online and attending live classes or streaming videos.

Making sure you’re meeting all required deadlines is an absolute must. Unlike traditional education where you have designated times and a place of gathering for schooling, distance learning means you need to plan ahead in order to make sure you’re free of daily distractions to finish your tasks or studies timely.

Going hand in hand with time management, discipline with online distance learning is a necessity. In order to finish tasks, attend and watch all your lectures, you should ensure you are disciplined enough to make time for it and not get distracted. It is up to you to put in the time needed to get the most out of your chosen class.

Benefits of distance learning

At the core of distance learning, the benefit is that it allows one to have some sort of contact with a lecturer or tutor while being in another location. This helps the student feel more involved in the learning process. You don’t have to be in a class in order to get a quality education. Let’s delve a little deeper into some of the additional advantages of distance learning.

Students are able to study in their own time. Whether this is after hours or over weekends, students are able to work their study schedule around their life and current responsibilities. This allows you to pursue additional career and education goals whilst juggling other responsibilities.If you live far from any educational institutions, distance learning is the perfect option for you. Forget about transport or accommodation, and allow distance learning to give you the education you want from home. The accessibility of online distance learning allows anyone, from anywhere, to get the education they’re looking for.Because online distance learning has so much flexibility, another benefit is that if you already have a full-time job or you are a parent running the household, you’re still able to make time for your career goals. Just because you’re busy does not mean your growth has to take a back seat. In fact, many of our students are employed full-time or run their own business when they start studying. If you want to see how other students managed to achieve their goals with a busy lifestyle check out these student stories.An added benefit is learning to manage your time and developing your sense of accountability. These are 2 highly sought after capabilities in the workplace and being able to show your current or potential employer your commitment and determination can go a long way!

Distance learning accreditation

Accreditation is the most valuable aspect of any higher education institution. Before signing up for any distance learning college, make sure you know the accreditation status of the institution you’re investigating. If the institution isn’t properly accredited, you might find that your certificate won’t hold much weight or that your qualification does not hold the credits you need. Visit our accreditations page to learn more. 

Choosing a distance learning course One of the most difficult but most important parts of furthering your education is choosing the online course you want to do. With the plethora of online courses available, it’s important you consider a few things before making your final decision. Let’s go through a few points.

Before enrolling for any course, you should make sure you understand all the costs involved. There are instances where students enrol, do the entire programme and at the end of it, realise they need to pay a fee for their certificate. All fees should be clear and understood upfront.

iQ Academy offers flexible payment options that suit your needs, view our payment options or visit any course page to see the associated fees for the course.

In order to ensure you’re able to allocate the appropriate time needed, knowing what’s expected of you throughout the duration of the course is a must. Knowing what you’re walking into will allow you to allocate time and resources appropriately.

When you enrol for a course with iQ Academy included as part of your course materials is a course guide and learning plan which details everything you need to know about your course as well as all the important dates and what you need to study when.

A Certificate of Completion? Diploma? Higher Certificate? Understand exactly what it is that you’ll be receiving upon completing the programme. Depending on your reasons for studying, you may want to enrol for something that is or isn’t credit-bearing. Make sure you take the time to understand this aspect before investing in your education.

You’re going to want to go into distance learning with a plan. Whether that’s rearranging your schedule, setting up a workspace, make sure you’re setting yourself up for success before you even begin. The last thing you want to worry about is how you are going to study, while you are actually studying! Reduce some stress and make sure you have the basics in place before you get started.

Understand that just because distance learning is convenient, does not mean it’s going to be easy. From the learning material itself to the assignments, assessments and making the time – it won’t be a fly by night endeavour. At the end of the day, properly accredited distance learning courses require just as much discipline (if not more) than physically going to a university or campus based college.

To conclude:

Choose the right distance learning institution by understanding what they offer, what their accreditation status is and what fees are involved 

Choose the right course by evaluating your goals (think about what it is that you want to achieve or learn?) and how much time you have available to pursue your studies.

Don’t be misled: Understand what you will receive when you complete the course before making any investments. Remember, there are credit-bearing and non-credit bearing courses out there, each plays their own role and fit into your goals differently.

Plan your work and then work your plan!