With traditional correspondence courses, students rely on pen, paper, and textbooks. Correspondence instruction is the workhorse of distance delivery, and for some, is the best alternative. When using some of the newer technologies, students can use audiotapes, cable, satellite, or videos to view lessons in the comfort of their homes or workplaces. Other students may enroll in programs supported by voice mail and phone conferences with instructors. Some programs will rely heavily upon computers, using computer bulletin boards and computer-conferencing via the Internet for time and place independent communication among students and instructors.
Many options exist, and use of new technology is growing daily.
No matter where Service members are stationed or what their duties may be, opportunities exist for selecting from many high-quality courses and degrees. See the detailed indexes at the back of this Catalog . Students succeed best in courses offered at a distance if they have taken college courses previously, and they are also more likely to succeed if they are taking specific courses to meet degree requirements. Students most frequently choose external degree programs when desired courses or programs are not offered locally, or when duties prevent class attendance. Before beginning an external degree program, students should consider numerous personal characteristics that may influence one's success in programs like this.