Types of Distance Learning Courses?

What is distance learning? Distance Learning combines technology-television, computers, FAX/modems, telephone-with textbooks and printed materials to bring course content, instructor and students together. With almost 30 years' experience in distance learning, Coastline offers a variety of college-credit course delivery options to meet your educational needs:

TELECOURSES

Students watch pre-produced programs on broadcast or cable TV, or record programs for later viewing, or visit local viewing centers. Read textbooks and study guides, interact with instructors via phone, FAX or e-mail, attend live review sessions, mail in assignments and quizzes, and take on-site or proctored exams.

CABLE COURSES 
Students watch instructors in locally produced programs on cable TV, or record programs or later viewing, or visit local viewing centers. Read textbooks and study guides, interact with instructors via phone. FAX or e-mail, attend live review sessions, mail in assignments and quizzes, and take on-site or proctored exams. Some extra Internet/World Wide Web support may be available.

INDEPENDENT STUDY/CD-ROM COURSE 
Students study independently using specially prepared course materials that include reading materials, textbooks, study guides, self-paced assignments and video materials. May also include CD-ROM multimedia materials, Internet access or lab kits. Interact with instructor via phone, FAX or e-mail, watch or listen to pre-recorded review sessions, mail in assignments and quizzes, and take on-site or proctored exams.

CODEC INTERACTIVE VIDEOCONFERENCING 
The latest in interactive videoconferencing technology allows Coastline to offer point-to-point electronic connections with other classrooms anywhere in the world. Students see and hear instructor and classmates "live". Electronic presentations supplement class materials. 

INTERNET/WEB-BASED COURSE 
Take courses over the Internet and work at your own time, place and speed! Use your computer with an Internet account, such as Earth Link or America Online (AOL), to access the Coastline Distance Learning Web site. Course materials (text lectures, video clips, sound files, images, site links, assignments, quizzes, instructor interaction, chat rooms) are featured on the Web site. Textbooks, possible multimedia materials and videos are part of the packet purchased for the course. Exams are conducted on-site or proctored for students unable to attend locally.

BENEFITS 
Convenient, flexible options for fulfilling degree requirements. 

  • Academically proven, well-produced curriculum developed by college faculty, scholars, practitioners and instructional design specialists. 
  • Opportunity to attain educational/career goals without sacrificing full-time employment or family. 
  • Technology-enhanced learning experience. 
  • Opportunities for K-12 teacher credentialing and salary advance credit.
  • Programs tailored for highly motivated, committed, goal-oriented learners. 
  • Accessible learning options for students with disabilities. 

 

Self Review

1. What are the 5 main types of DL courses?
2. What are the main characteristics of each delivery technology?
3. What general hardware/software access might be needed by the student for each type of course delivery?

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