Distance learning programs are providing access to continuing education for a larger population.

Distance learning programs are not a 21st century innovation. In fact, distance learning has been available since the 1800's in the United States in the form of correspondence courses. The most sophisticated technology involved in these programs was the postal service. Still, the opportunity was provided to those that could not attend a school or training program to learn the material at home and at their own speed.

The explosion of information technology during the last decade has altered the scope and structure of distance learning programs. Over the years, innovations were introduced that allowed students located away from a main campus or other central facility to participate in real time. One method was conference calls, which used the telephone to convey lessons and allowed interaction in some cases. Another was videoconferencing, which enabled off-site students to view the class presentation at the same time as those physically present.

There are two major developments that have influenced the current trends in distance learning programs. The first is the expansion and integration of the Internet into daily life. The personal computer and the Internet facilitate the exchange of data in a variety of forms. Consequently, it is possible for schools to transmit lessons and other information to students while students can easily return assignments and communicate with instructors.

The second change is the lifestyle challenges that exist in our society. The demands of modern life would appear to exclude many from participating in higher education. However, the new technologies of distance education programs allow working people, "stay-at-home Moms", international students, people in rural communities, executives posted overseas and disabled students to reap the benefits of the improved access that information technology provides. There is virtually no logistical circumstance that would prevent access to continuing education.

You can ride the wave of distance learning programs from the prospect of a stagnant career to the virtual halls of higher education.

Also Recommended for Distance Learning

Regis University Online - Innovative online classes designed to help working adults integrate life-long learning into their busy professional lives. Jacksonville University Online - Offering their highly regarded and accredited RN-to-BSN program on-line so busy nurses can continue their education. Norwich University - 185 year academic heritage, decades of servicing adult distance learners and a variety of excellent online graduate programs. Walden University - A leading provider of quality higher education at a distance for over three decades with students from more than 30 countries and all 50 United States. Keiser College eCampus - Offers degree programs in today's high-demand careers: Medical Assisting, Technology, Paralegal, Business, and Criminal Justice. ACCIS - Offers a number of technology and management degrees online, allowing students to learn at their own pace and study in the comfort of their home or work environment. Baker College Online - The largest private college in Michigan and one of the largest online educational programs in the United States catering to students pursuing careers in the business, health and human services, and technical fields.

University of Phoenix Online - With over 99,000 online students, University of Phoenix Online has one of the most successful online degree programs in the country. Western International University - Online - Students interested in an online degree come from across the country and around the world to study a broad-based curriculum focused on Business and Technology. St. Leo University - One of the largest undergraduate online degree programs in the country and a major worldwide provider of education to active military servicemembers. Capella University - Offers over 600 online courses, as well as undergraduate and graduate degree programs in 40 areas of specialization. Clayton College of Natural Health - With more than 20,000 students and graduates, this is the world’s leading college of natural health and holistic nutrition. Westwood College - Westwood College of Technology offers a variety of academic programs through fully online degree programs that prepare students for high-demand careers. University of Liverpool - Enables students to obtain an internationally recognized degree through a program specifically designed to meet the needs of busy professionals.