After an introduction to the subject of distance learning and online
education, this book provides complete descriptions to most of the
nation's online education programs. As such, it is most valuable
as a reference book, rather than a book about how to study online.
In the introduction, the book's authors describe the traditional
definition of distance learning, but then they go on to describe
the changes the internet has brought to the process. As described
in the book, the popularity of computers brought with it the
possibility that specific topics, and even entire courses,
could be delivered by computer. But it took the rise of the
internet in the 1990s to make it a widespread learning method.
The book answers the question, "Can You Earn a Degree or Certificate
Online" with a qualified yes (it depends on what school you want to go to). The authors also discuss the issue of whether or not an online degree is credible.
The book also discusses the advantages of online learning and goes
on to describe the types of people who might benefit from the
emergence of online learning programs.
The authors describe the levels of technology you will need to learn
online, but this section could be enhanced with a discussion of
broadband technologies and how they can be used to enhance the
learning process. The book says you only need a computer, printer,
and online access, but some online learning programs can be greatly
enhanced if the student has access to the latest computer conferencing
tools.
There is also a section on how to find the right school and why
accreditation is so important. It provides a list of questions
you should ask before deciding on a distance learning program.
They include: (1) is the school accredited? (2) how many online
courses does the school offer? (3) how long has the school been
offering courses online? (4) what is the student to instructor ratio?
(5) what are the costs? (6) what financial aid is available?
(7) does the school accept transfer credits? (8) are you required to
spend time on campus? The book also suggests that you should
investigate some of the nuts and bolts issues of the learning process,
such as how lectures are conducted online (web, video, videotape) and
how assignments are submitted.
After the general introduction to online learning issues the rest
of the book is a description of institutions and their online
programs. Although new online programs are constantly being
developed, this book provides the best available source of
information about current online learning programs.
