What Your Distance Learning Instructor Wants You To Know

By Jon Ginsburg

Distance learning is a popular choice these days. Long a viable option for those who couldn’t travel or relocate to attend school, it also has become a more affordable option for students who have easy access to community colleges and universities. Tuition fees are getting higher, and many colleges and universities are drastically cutting classes to save money, leaving fewer options for students. Distance learning is a good alternative, but it can be far more challenging than a brick and mortar school.

Many students are completely unprepared for the reality of independent learning through distance learning providers. Used to sitting in a class, taking notes from a professor at the front of the class, they are not prepared for the time it takes to read the equivalent amount of information in printed material, nor for the time required to complete all the written assignments that replace group work, presentations, in class participation and all the other ways instructors assess their students in a physical classroom.

The drop-out rate for distance learning is much higher than that found in most colleges, as students begin to fall behind and feel overwhelmed. It is important to start out understanding the differences and time requirements for a class taken through distance education. Students are required to stay on top of their work on their own, without the regular pushing and reminders given in typical classes.

The instructor will prepare the reading materials and work, and will typically provide a basic schedule for the class, including assignment due dates. Many students underestimate the amount of time the reading takes and leave it too late to get it all done in time. And once they begin to fall behind, it becomes more and more challenging to catch up, let alone get on top of the work.

If you are starting to flounder or fall behind, talk to the instructor and let them know. They may be able to help you set up a schedule to get caught up, and might have some tips on how to stay on top of the work for their particular class. Don’t procrastinate or avoid the work – it won’t go anywhere and will only accumulate.

With care and diligence, a good schedule, and communication with your instructor, you can be successful with the heavier load of distance learning classes.

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