Is there value for Distance Education in India?

Distance learning allows you to access knowledge at your own convenience. It is a great way to pursue your degree while having a modest job. Thanks to the technological developments and digital media advancements, it has become easier for modern-day candidates to access distance education. Manu universities have emerged which aim to offer quality education via a distance learning program.

But the question that still bothers students is- “Is distance education worth it?” Distance education is built on the concept that you don’t need to be physically present on the campus to gain knowledge. You can get the same quality education, even if you are inside your house, warm and cosy or in your office.

Students often compare distance education and regular courses, especially when it is time to pursue a postgraduate degree and most of them fail to understand how distance education can help them. But before you go into depth, analyzing regular courses and distance education, you must have a clear idea about both of them.

What is a Regular Course?

A regular course is the conventional method of learning- something that has been going on since the very beginning. Regular courses require you to be physically present at your university. You need to attend classes, write papers and participate in practical learning.

That is how things have always been. If you want to pursue a degree, you need to be physically present. Of course, a regular course gives you great exposure. But it needs your full attention at all times.

What is Distance Learning?

Distance learning is a modification of classroom learning. Instead of being physically present, you are digitally present. Distance learning is all about education, but you do not need to attend the classes physically.

Distance learning is mainly dependent on the use of mobiles and laptop/desktop computers. The internet allows you to attend lectures virtually, or see a recording of the lecture at your convenience. It gives you the liberty to participate in either online or offline classes.

Analytical Study - Distance Learning and Regular Courses

When you compare distance learning and regular courses, you will realise these are two different paths to the same destination. Distance learning and regular classes have different demands and expect different things of a student. But the result is more or less the same.

Here is how distance learning and regular courses are different from each other:

A regular course requires your undivided attention. There is a schedule which you need to follow. Attend classes on time, submit assignments and a lot more. On the other hand, if you are taking a distance learning course, you have access to offline lectures at all times. Distance learning is an ideal option if you wish to continue your studies while holding down a job. In today's economy, it is tough to survive without a job. And with a regular course, there is a minimum probability that you will be able to work while you study.

When it comes to money, you will observe that regular courses are much more expensive than distance learning. Distance courses are incredibly affordable and an ideal option for students from a poor socio-economic state.

It is tough to find time for anything when you take up a regular course, whereas a distance course allows you to make time for things. And you can twist your schedule according to your need. In other words, you get quality education on-demand.

Distance learning is more about the student than about the faculty. There is no doubt that the colleges which offer distance courses have the best faculty. But in a regular class, there are more chances of you being left behind. Distance education allows you to learn at your own pace. Connect to the course whenever and wherever you desire.

The distance learning courses available in India are 100% valid and approved by the Distance Education Council. With a distance learning course, you can apply for a job anywhere, even under the central government.

Although distance learning and regular courses have significant differences, there is no compromise on the quality of education. Distance education is designed to provide comfort to students. Students can have access to lectures, notes and online doubt sessions whenever they need.

Future prospects of Distance Education

Distance learning is a great way to achieve higher education. All you need to do is enrol in a program. Universities all over India offer undergraduate, postgraduate and certification courses online. The best thing about distance learning is you can work and study at the same time. And over time, when you gain your certification, you can use it to climb up the ladder of success.

With age, it gets tougher to stay unemployed and dedicate your time to school. But if you take up distance education, you can balance both. And with a better view of what you want to do with your life, you can pick out the best courses. With distance education, you can learn things on the go.

Most students are worried about validation. But they shouldn’t be. Distance courses are as valid as regular courses.

Are Correspondence Courses helpful for Job Opportunities?

Most universities which offer distance courses have an impressive placement rate. Most students secure a decent job on completion of the correspondence course. If you don’t wish to appear for college placement, you can take your degree and try to enhance your pre-existent career. Distance learning opens up a lot of opportunities for you.

In fact, distance learning is taken as a positive sign in many companies. It shows that you are serious about your career and want to rise. It also demonstrated that you are capable of taking up multiple responsibilities at a time. Looks great on your resume, doesn't it?

Conclusion

Distance learning has come a long way. It has become more robust and brings quality education right to your couch. And since the development of Distance Education Council, the quality and availability of distance learning courses have improved.

A closer analysis would reveal that distance education and regular courses might be different, but they offer similar results. You learn things and get proper validation via both regular and distance learning method.