There are some drawbacks in the distance learning arena. Among them are unscrupulous institutions that misrepresent themselves to potential students and basically run scams on the public. Additionally, because there is less direct personal contact in the distance learning environment, students are often more rude online than they would likely be otherwise. This atmosphere has led some companies to avoid, or at least temporarily steer away from, online training for their employees. Drawbacks aside, however, the advantages are clear.
Distance learning is in a rapidly moving upward curve.
Established in 1955, DETC's seven-member Accrediting Commission has accredited more than 60 distance learning institutions to date. It is unique in American accreditation because it is one based upon a method of instruction rather than educational level or subject matter discipline. It covers all programs, courses and distance study endeavors of an institution, including degree, non-degree, vocational and avocational programs. The Commission, comprised of four members representing the public and three representing the private sector, meets twice yearly, in January and June, to accredit or reaccredit institutions. They are limited, due to their agreement with the U.S. Department of Education, to dealing with high school level and postsecondary courses through the Masters degree level.