Distance learning reaches out to non-traditional students who must fit their studies around workplace and family responsibilities, geographical barriers, or personal challenges. Students can be at satellite campuses, at the workplace, or at home. Instruction may take place in real time or on a time-delayed basis. Interactivity between student and instructor, as well as among students themselves can be built into the program. Instruction is delivered using a number of technologies, depending on what is most appropriate for the subject and the targeted group of students.
Students progress through the course at their own speed, usually in isolation.
Audio technologies such as telephone conference calls or radio allow synchronous delivery of instruction to all students. Video technologies such as videotape, compressed digital video, cable, or satellite delivered programming add more flexibility and sophistication to instructional design. Support technologies such as e-mail, fax, phone, and the World Wide Web facilitate interactivity, even in totally asynchronous delivery systems. Non-traditional students are a primary beneficiary. Some are just starting their educations.