On line distance education is the largest growing segment of higher education today. Experts say the number of online distance education students will more than triple in the next three years. Using virtually any computer with a modem or network connection, students and instructors either dial up to a worldwide network or use the Internet to log on to their course.
Instructors interact with their class both individual and in groups.
Since the program is easy to learn, students and instructors are able to concentrate on their work rather than worrying about the technology. And they do this whenever and wherever it works best for them. Typically, students log on at the beginning of the week and download current assignments, reading, lectures, and graded assignments from the previous week. They complete the work at their convenience and when they have time, then turn in their homework, ask questions, and participate in group discussions. In an online distance education class, the instructor's role is that of facilitator, rather than lecturer.