Date: 3/29/99

Time: 3:15

Type: Symposium

Number: 47

Pros and cons of learning through distance education: student perspectives

*D. Meyers, Quaker Oats Co., St. Joseph, MO 64505
Contact e-mail:

Distance education is a great learning opportunity for those of us in full time jobs, who have families, who can't afford to quit working, and/or don't want to quit working to go back to school, but do want to further our education. Distance education, while different than a traditional college or university setting, is a much more convenient method of learning, but by no means any less stringent. The biggest advantage it provides is convenience: 1) You don't have to commit to attending lectures at a specific time or day of the week, 2) You can complete assignments as you have the time (adjustable time constraints), 3) Learning can be accomplished in the comfort of your own home with your family, 4) You don't have to send the kids to a babysitter, and 5) You can get a desired degree from a college or university distant from your home town. Traditional methods limit you to educational opportunities within driving distance. In summary, distance education has provided me the opportunity to further my education when otherwise this would not have been possible due to my current life style. It has been a great experience thus far!

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