A study to determine the value and effectiveness of online distance learning to technical and community college students

Abstract

Over the last decade or so, institutions of higher learning and the public in general have become increasingly interested in distance education. Whereas, in the past, education has traditionally meant bringing students to sources of knowledge, the time has come to bring sources of knowledge to the students. With distance learning one instructor can address many more students, and can do so either simultaneously or asynchronously. The Internet allows flexibility, for adults who are either time or place bound, to access educational opportunities that otherwise would be inaccessible to them. While distance learning has many benefits, it is not without demands. The purpose of this study was to critically review and analyze the research regarding the value and effectiveness of online distance learning in order to effectively instruct and complete online distance programs and courses. Without effective instruction, the student’s learning has less of a chance to succeed in a distance format. In the introduction, an understanding of distance education is explored. Following this, is a review of the academic role in distance learning, characteristics of effective distant teachers, characteristics of successful students, and strategies to teach online courses effectively. Conclusions and recommendations are directed toward technical and community college instructors that have a desire to facilitate and learn more about presenting an effective online course. The findings in this study revealed that success is attainable for both instructors and participants of online courses with the proper preparation and mindset. Effective teaching strategies can be acquired by the facilitator of an online course if they are willing to learn new techniques that pertain to distance education. Students, who are highly motivated to enroll in an online course, can be just as successful as students in the traditional format. Finally, the research supports that interaction between the instructor, students, and their peer group plays a vital role in the completion of a successful online course.