Therefore in this chapter will examine the major models used in distance education programs. Specifically, we ll look at class size, instructional delivery, and interaction. At one time the only type of distance education was independent study. The Moody Bible Institute, for example, has been offering independent study course for almost 100 years. However, because of the educational advantages to personal interaction, many of the distance learning programs have adopted a tutorial or group approach.
Independent studies are fairly self-explanatory.
You, the student, work through a course independent of other students or the instructor. Typically you receive a packet of information at the beginning of a course, including lectures, books, and assignments, and you then work through the material at your own pace. Once you have completed all of the assignments, and possibly a proctored final exam, you submit your materials and receive a grade for the course. The two primary disadvantages are that you lose the feedback of fellow classmates and you also lack regular interaction with the instructor. The tutorial model attempts to address the second disadvantage of independent studies by facilitating interaction between the instructor and the student.