Distance learning is education designed for learners who live at a distance from the teaching institution or education provider. It is the enrollment and study with an educational institution that provides organised, formal learning opportunities for students.

Presented in a sequential and logical order, the instruction is offered wholly or primarily by distance study, through virtually any media. Historically, its predominant medium of instruction has been printed materials, although non-print media is becoming more and more popular. It may also incorporate or make use of CD or DVD ROM’s, audio recordings, facsimiles, telephone communications, and the Internet through e-mail and Web-based delivery systems. When each lesson or segment is completed, the student makes available to the university the assigned work for correction, grading, comment, and subject matter guidance by qualified instructors. Corrected assignments are returned to the student. This exchange fosters a personalised student-tutor relationship, which is the hallmark of distance learning instruction.

Historically, most distance learning courses were vocational in nature, but today courses are offered for academic, professional, and avocational purposes for students of all ages. There are numerous specialised programmes, such as those for blind persons and for parents of small children with hearing impairments. Distance learning is available in practically any field, from accounting to zoology.

Distance learning courses also vary greatly in scope, level, and length. Some have a few assignments and require only a few months to complete, while others have a hundred or more lesson assignments requiring three or four years of conscientious study.

Unlike most distance learning courses offered by traditional colleges and universities that are term and classroom oriented, with courses offered by most accredited institutions you can study any time and anywhere. Distance learning is especially suited for busy people who wish to increase their knowledge and skills without giving up their jobs, leaving home, or losing income. You learn while you earn. Many courses provide complete vocational training; others prepare you for upgrading in your present job, without losing wages, experience or seniority. You receive individual attention, and you work at your own pace.

In recent years, technology has played a significant role in transforming the traditional distance learning school into a dynamic, interactive distance learning method using toll-free telephone lines, as well as a diverse array of personal computers, video devices, CD and DVD ROMs, online courses over the Internet, interactive devices, and other modern technological innovations. The future for distance study promises to be exciting!