With the recent technological advances many universities around the world are now offering online courses. This makes it possible for the students to attend numerous schools while still living in the comfort of their own home. Distance education is the latest trend around the educational world. Many educators agree that distance education offers convenience, a higher level of education, saving time and money on the commute to and from campus, and diversifying a resume. However, other educators strongly believe that the traditional style of a classroom is essential in the pursuit of a higher education.
Anecdotal evidence is a popular argument among the distance education supporting authors.
Sims is a distance learning instructor for the history and social sciences series, Power to Make a Difference, preparing the class for an activity in child labor issues. Matthew and other students excitedly wave their hands in hope of being called upon by their teacher to share their ideas by calling a toll free number linking them directly to Sims. The authors that feel distance education is a great opportunity to use scientific and statistical evidence to support their opinions. As long as the research is not biased the evidence is valid and acceptable. Nearly all participants found significant growth in mathematics and science skills.