The system of learning without physically sitting in a classroom is known as distance learning or distance education. Unlike the traditional classroom learning, it does not require the student to be physically present. There is no physical interaction between the students and the teacher.

The students are taught using technology based instructional systems which are designed for remote access. Communication between the teacher and students is done through printed materials or electronic media.

Distance learning makes use of many mediums. Examples include regular mail, offline internet resources, television and radio. It is on record that this system of learning dates back to 1840 when Isaac Pitman taught shorthand through correspondence.

The oldest distance learning Universities in the world is the University of South Africa which has been in the business since 1946. The Open University, UK was founded in 1969 and offers lots of courses too.

One of the things you must think of when looking for distance learning universities is accreditation. Accreditation is very germane to the relevance of any institutions offering courses in distance learning. This is what you must look out for first before enrolling in any institution. When a school is accredited, it means that you will get quality education and the certificate you will get from the institution will not be rejected by employers.

Many of the institutions out there are not accredited and are therefore regarded as mere diploma mills, churning out fake certificates. Stay away from these as much as possible if you don’t want to ruin your career.

In many developing countries, the medium mostly used for distance learning is radio. It is considered as a powerful medium for transmitting knowledge. For instance, in India, the institutions offering distance learning make use of FM broadcasting, a very popular medium among many Indian students.

Distance learning programs can be undertaken full time or part time. However, many students prefer the latter. This is because it accommodates their busy lifestyles. In other words, it is quite possible for them to keep their full time job and still be learning. They don’t have to leave their job to go back to school.