Sign up for a distance learning course or degree program, and either from home or on the road, rack up the grades and reap the rewards. There's no question that people who previously would not have considered distance learning are finding that it adapts to their needs. They also find that convenience and flexibility don't equal easy. Many new distance learners are shocked at what it takes to complete distance courses or degrees. Kay Kohl, Executive Director of the University Continuing Education Association in Washington, D.C., cautions that not all people find that online instruction is the right learning environment for them.
Some students have learning styles that clash with the way a distance course is delivered.
It's not an easy way to go to school, comments Peter Ewell, Senior Associate at the National Center For Higher Education Management Systems in Boulder, Colorado, referring to the significant number of distance learning students who drop out midstream. Mixed with the high praise that many have for distance learning is the frustration that some feel because they are not well suited to deal with its unique requirements. One of the top mistakes people make is assuming distance education is an instant education, observes Pam Dixon, a columnist and author of seven books, one of which is The Virtual College , published by Peterson's in 1996. A huge difference exists between what's expected of participants of degree or certification programs and those taking a course in investing money, warns Kohl. Some programs rigorously challenge students with the amount of reading and writing assignments.