Distance/Online Learning

Distance Learning is when coursework occurs outside the standard classroom. Generally, professor and student are separated by geography. Coursework, lectures, class discussions, and testing is accomplished through a variety of media, including DVDs, Web Cams, Television and Radio broadcasts, and more. Also called: Distance Education, Online Education, Online Learning, etc.

Thanks to modern technology, it is easier than ever to get a college degree; however, it is important to investigate a few things before signing up for classes:

1. Are the credits transferable to other institutions?

2. Will I make a good distance learning student?

3. Can I get financial aid for the classes that I am taking online?

4. What do I do if I don't understand the material sent to me?

5. Can I attend both distance class and traditional classes at the same time?

6. What can I do to prepare for distance education?

7. What if I can't do the work?

You can contact an educational planner in your area to discuss your questions and concerns about distance education.  There are wonderful distance programs that do qualify for financial aid-however, not all qualify and not all credits transfer-be cautious.

If you want to see if you are a good candidate for distance education, take this test: 

Self-Evaluation for Online Studies

If you want to explore this further, you can take free online courses at www.free-ed.net. These courses are free and open to all; however, you do not get college credits-but you do gain the knowledge! And its a free test to see how you will do in the Distance Learning arena!

There is also a Pennsylvania Virtual College Consortium where the Community Colleges teamed there distance learning courses together to make online learning easier for everyone, to learn more visit:  Pennsylvania Virtual College Consortium