Online Distance Education Programs

Online distance education, also called online distance learning, has grown by leaps and bounds as the Internet and bandwidth become more accessible. This leaves the online learner with more options for flexibility.

Many accredited colleges and schools in the United States offer programs in a variety of areas, whether it is bachelors and undergraduate, o r graduate (masters, doctoral/PhD, professional degrees Distance Learning and e-Learning Technology Degrees Online are offered by leading accredited universities. To learn more about program offerings in many areas of study in the United States, request additional information from any of the colleges below. Distance learning is not a new experience although online distance education is a more recent and evolving phenomena. Distance learning has been a method of teaching and learning for many individuals for at least one hundred years, starting with correspondence learning via postal mail (Moore & Kearsley, 1996). Online degree courses and e-learning utilizes multiple resources and multimedia components for learners anywhere at anytime.

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Selected Online Distance Education Colleges and Universities

Capella University - Online

Kaplan University - Online

Colorado Technical University Online

Walden University

Western International University

Grand Canyon University

Argosy University Online

Strayer University

Liberty University

South University

Rasmussen College

Ashford University

Western Governors University

American Intercontinental University (AIU)

The advent of information and communication technology (ICT) and e-learning have blurred the boundaries of distance education and traditional education (Garrison & Shale, 1987). Distance education has evolved in accordance with the trends and changes in conventional education for online degree classes. Technological innovations like cable, satellite, computers, and fiber optics have increased the scope of distance education. As the radio was added to the conventional lecture approach, distance education integrated audiovisual components as well. Online and e-learning degrees are available in a variety of areas:

• Online Business Administration and MBA Degree Programs
• Online Education Degree Programs
• Nursing Degrees
• Computers & I.T. Degrees
• Health & Medicine Degrees

Presently, distance learning uses emerging technologies such as e-learning to enhance traditional education. For example satellite links, computers, telephone and Internet conferencing, two-way interactive video and the Internet. As a result, the distance learner can now have almost the same instructional contact and interaction as the student on campus. The introduction of live two-way audio and video communications means that face-to-face interaction and interpersonal communication can be combined at the same time when teaching at a distance.

The terms "distance learning" and "distance education" have been applied by many different researchers interchangeably to a great variety of programs, providers, audience, and media. Programs are available at all levels including:

• Associate Degrees
• Bachelor Degrees
• Masters Degrees
• Doctorate Degrees

References

Garrison, D.R., & Shale, D. (1987). Mapping the boundaries of distance education: Problems in defining the field. The American Journal of Distance Education, 1(1), 7-17.

Moore, M. G., & Kearsley, G. (1996). Distance education: A systems view. Belmont, CA: Wadsworth.

Before proceeding with online distance education e-learning degree programs, it is important to examine some important points, such as: 1) The advantages and disadvantages of online distance education; 2) The types of learners who are successful in online distance education programs; and 3) Locating credible and accredited programs. This will help you avoid diploma mills. Use the Search Tool below to locate a variety of schools and programs.