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Distance Education: Merits And Demerits Date 14

Distance Learning: Merits and Demerits

Figure A-1. Shutterstock.com © 2020

Supervised by: Aleem Salman

Name: Mohammed Salman Al-shehri

ID: 401902531

Department of English Language

Major: Logistics & Supply Chain Management

Date: 23/2/2021

Table of Contents
1. Introduction 1

2. Theories of Distance Learning

2

3. History of Distance Learning

3

4. Merits of Distance Education

4

4.1 Time-Saving

5

4.2 There is no commuting.

5

4.3 The study from anywhere, anytime.

5

4.4 Save a large amount of cash.

5

4.5 Flexibility of choice

6

4.5 Earning While Learning

6

4.6 Learning at the Own Speed

6

5. Demerits of distance learning

7

5.1 High potential for distraction

7

5.2 Challenging technology

7

5.3 There is no Social Contact.

8

5.4 Hard to stay in touch with teachers

8

5.5 Labour markets do not accept online degrees.

9
5.6 Hidden costs 9
6. Conclusion 10

7. References

11

8. Appendix A:

14

Acknowledgement

As a matter of fact, I would like to thank God for providing the opportunity to perform this progress. At this point I should like to thank my English teacher, whose important direction has helped me to reorganize this project and to prove its full accomplishment in his guidelines and directives as the important bishop in the performance of the task. Maybe I want to congratulate my people at this point who have helped me with their strategic value. Proposals and guidance was very useful at various times when the progress was fulfilled. But last but not least I would like to thank my colleague for helping me so much to reach this far.

Abstact

Distance learning is a teaching process that assumes that a reader and a teacher are physically separated, while technology allows them to communicate and overcome obstacles in time and space. ELearning has its benefits and disadvantages, as with other forms of learning. The most important tasks of regularly creating teaching materials is to overcome the shortcomings and issues faced during the classroom activities by the student and educators. During the study, the main advantage for the institution has been the spike in the volume of students attending. From the point of view of the student, the main advantage is the flexibility offered through distance learning. The modality of distance may continue to grow steadily but at some point in education history it still seems utopian to say that face-to-face schooling will become irrelevant and will thus be completely overrun by online learning. Not all students have the profile to be taught at a distance. The benefits and drawbacks that the users faced during their work have received great attention.

1. Introduction

Distance education is a type of education in which students need not always be physically present in a classroom. A student learns and submits electronically selected subjects without heading to the examination center, college, or university (Simpson, 2013). This electronic tool is used to provide instruction resources, hold students in communication with teachers and enable students to connect. Of course, distance learning will benefit from other technical channels, including television, DVD, telecommunications, and printable content. However, online education’s immediacy and functionality have rendered it the first option among many distance learning. According to Dumitru & Vacean (2014), Internet programs often benefit from a broad spectrum of technological innovations that make contact and share thoughts faster and accessible than ever. Many distance learning is now accessible on the internet. It is readily usable for most students, whether at home or in locations like local libraries, using videos, e-mails, and message boards to complete their courses (Lewis, 1997).

Distance education is not a prospect for which higher education must be prepared; it is a present fact that gives educational institutions possibilities and challenges; a reality that offers students a more excellent range of where, when, and who to study from; a reality that allows education to be available to a growing amount of individuals (Naidu, 1994). Already several universities are providing distance learning courses. These courses have become more diverse, and an increasing number of students choosing such methods poses the issue of the efficiency of the offered education. For this reason, scholars continue to build and expand online activities (Simpson, 2013). According to the American Journal of distance education (2013), individuals who have not been able, for any cause, to pursue their undergraduate or postgraduate studies may now do so through distance learning. Distance learning thus provides fair rewards for people. The history and theories of distance learning are explored in-depth in this article. The benefits and drawbacks of distance learning are also explained in depth.

2. Theories of Distance Learning

There is no single theory of schooling that has arisen in general; it relates to online teaching. Several hypotheses have evolved, many focused on the main approaches previously addressed (Sims, 2013). Several theories are discussed in this portion. Miyazoe & Anderson (2011) proposed the creation of an online method to learning, starting with the presumption that it would be challenging, perhaps tricky, or even impossible. . Whereas, in general, he agreed that many theoreticians and professionals see online learning as a part of education, he also said that online learning is always about having links to the educational experience, which is, as a campus-based college, at least versatile in time and room (Olson, 2015)

Olson (2015) explored various theories and concepts but based on Leonard’s valued work (2002), which indicated that productive learning environments have the convergence of four simultaneous lenses: community centering, knowledge centering, training focused, and assessment centering. These lenses formed the foundations for Olson’s approach to developing an online instructional philosophy by analyzing detailed functionality and facilities for each of the four lenses offered by the Internet. Secondly, it stated that the Internet has grown from a text-based environment, which embraces and is readily accessible for all media types. He also commented correctly that the Internet’s hyperlink ability is more consistent with the storage and usage of human information. Here, he discussed Duffy & Jonassen’s (2013) work, which connected hyperlink with constructivism. Finally, Olson explored the value of connection in all learning modes thoroughly and listed various theoreticians of primarily distance education, such as Cheah (2004) and (Illeris 2018). In many teaching theories, particularly constructivism, the nature of engagement between students, educators, and content is well known and expressed (Sims, 2013).

Shelly et al. (2002) classify senior and distance learning technological growth under three generations: correspondence, telephone, and computers. Similarly, the same categorization was created by Brent & Anderson (1990): Mainstream media, Conference, and Web 2.0. When analyzing the general parameters of such categorizations, we can see that the activity style (one or two paths) and position (active or passive) of participants play a significant role. Further, it is essential to understand interconnected telecommunications systems rather than visual versus audio versus data systems when evaluating todays and potential technology for distance learning (Illeris, 2018).

3. History of Distance Learning

Although distance education has recently exploded, mainly because of the latest technology available, distance training roots can be traced back over a hundred years (D.D.Aggarwal, 2007). At a minimum, there must be a sender, a recipient, and a message to connect. If this letter is meant as an instruction, the context in which this instructional contact exists must be considered in addition to the pupil, instructor, and material (Pfau, 2018). In Simpson’s opinion (2013), the effectiveness of remote teaching is dependent on the content of the teacher-student dialog and the usefulness of the contact method in an instructional phase. To further reduce travel needs for teachers and pupils, organizations have been leveraging accessible devices such as audio (e.g., phones), videotapes, and television to perform remote education efforts (Lewis, 1997).

According to Ainin et al. (2015), on the socialization and utilization of Facebook for academic achievement, a significant positive impact on academic results has been seen by the use of Facebook. The outcomes of two courses in the introductory graduate-level accounting course were further evaluated by Ainin et al. (2015), one portion a standard campus course, and the other one a distance learning program. According to the findings collected, students’ output on campus was close to that of students on campus. Changes as universities and colleges support the technology utilize online and distance learning methods to engage in farther markets and innovations that overtake human instructional and administrative roles, which reflect gradual industrialization of the core sector of universities and colleges. This has been identified from the advent of modern distance education.

These forms of delivery modes and media were also utilized as distance education started to develop as a means of education. Early distance education students comprised primarily of rural or distant students who had no regional connection to educational institutions. The main population of distance learners is service participants of the US higher education and World War II (2019). Since World War II, the number of correspondence courses grew dramatically when many veterans rushed to finish their schooling while they were working. Early distance education courses used networking tools of the first and second centuries. The first wave (the 1850s to 1960s) comprised print, radio, and television. Digital media, such as radio and television, also incorporated these new technologies with distance education strategies. Distance learning courses in the second century (1960-1985) used various technology without computers. According to Siemens (2019), audiotape, cable, video cassette, fax, and print media were used for distance education in the second century. The founding of the British Open University (1969), with a mixed medium approach to distance learning technology, represented an important development in the delivery of distance education (“Prologue: American higher education and World War II,” 2019). Teaching material (text, audio & visual), augmented by television and radio, was sent to students by letter (Pfau, 2018).

4. Merits of Distance Education

Despite the few misgivings, distance education becomes more familiar with students than ever before, and many students are happy with their learning experience. Teachers will adjust to the modern way of learning through more technical changes and different experiences. Distance learning might not be the perfect option for any student searching for a university degree or program, but the list of benefits seems to overshadow the list of drawbacks (Keegan, 1994)

4.1 Time-Saving

Plotnikova et al. (2017) claimed that there was no wasted time waiting for a bus or train to or from the university to go to work. You have distance learning software right in the bedroom – the study material on your desk or the e-material on your telephone. Students with limited time prefer distance learning from home comfort (Sadeghi, 2019).

4.2 There is no commuting.

Nagrale (2013) argued that one does not have to ride on crowded buses or trains to receive distance education. You need an internet-linked device in your house. The entire college is in your bedroom, and you don’t have to leave. Transportation is the most demanding aspect, and you lose a lot of time, resources, and electricity. Nobody wants to drive for long hours (Sadeghi, 2019).

4.3 The study from anywhere, anytime.

The good thing is, with distance learning, one can always study from anywhere. It does not matter when or which part of the world one is learning from. Even if an international school provides your schooling, you can conveniently access your course content if you are a resident of another country. Get all the awareness and education anywhere you live on the earth (Sadeghi, 2019)

4.4 Save a large amount of cash.

According to Sadeghi (2019), a much more costly (online or otherwise) fee may be paid for any specified curriculum than an average on-campus degree fee. Students searching for cost-effective alternatives may select a distance learning program. You don’t have to live in the same city or region to join your learning institution preference. You can learn anywhere a machine and Internet access is accessible. In comparison, the classes offered at distance learning centers are more straightforward than those provided at conventional schools (Sadeghi, 2019)

4.5 Flexibility of choice

Sadeghi, (2019). Learners must meet with a specific learning plan in compliance with the school’s program if they adopt conventional forms of learning. However, numerous distance learning forms enable students to set their learning schedule if they desire without following a regular learning schedule. And if they are out of contact, distance learning gives them the freedom to select their path (Plotnikova et al., 2017)

4.5 Earning While Learning

For people who choose to boost their resume by higher education, distance learning is the perfect alternative because they can learn without disrupting their current jobs. Learners can begin to make their living and improve their qualifications as distance learning accommodates both learning and earning (Nazarov & Sergeeva 2016)

4.6 Learning at the Own Speed

The thought of returning to school may be overwhelming for many. Asking a question about what one does not understand in class may be embarrassing for many students. For these learners, distance education serves them well (Plotnikova et al., 2017).

Figure A-2. Overview of distance education-eLearning industry. VasilkovS/Shutterstock.com

5. Demerits of distance learning

Despite its many conveniences, distance learning has its proportion of demerits, as seen below:

5.1 High potential for distraction

Plotnikova et al. (2017), With no face-to-face instructors and peers present to help with daily updates of outstanding assignments, students are more prone to be overwhelmed and lose track of time limits. Students ought to be motivated to complete distance learning effectively. Distance education is not a wise decision if you choose to delay and cannot follow deadlines. Besides, if a student has some issue, he/she cannot explain with the teacher or peers since there is a lack of daily contact with friends and colleagues. It only requires one to be self-motivated and focused on completing the course (Sadeghi, 2019).

5.2 Challenging technology

Students wanting to enroll in a distance learning program must invest in various equipment, including a device, a webcam, and safe internet access. Because teaching is delivered via the Internet, there is no direct contact with students and instructors. This over-reliance on technology poses an essential downside for distance learning. In any program or hardware failure, the class session ends, which may disrupt the learning phase. Moreover, the dynamic existence of remote learning technologies restricts online schooling for computer-savvy and technological students (Shcherbakova, 2020)

5.3 There is no Social Contact.

Learners frequently study individually and thus feel isolated and lack social and physical contact with the school. In comparison, they have little ability to learn the lessons orally. The lack of physical contact in the education phase will create several difficulties, such as loneliness. Sadeghi (2019) took the opinion that studying at a brick-and-mortar establishment allows students the opportunity to interact and communicate with people from different countries at their level. E-Learning limits students to online lectures and learning tools only. While students may engage via chat rooms, tables, emails, or video conferencing services, the experience is never equal to that of a typical university. Research by Nazarov & Sergeeva (2016) has shown that students’ difficulties and anxiety on the internet could not be adequately understood. Worked late at night has brought various complexities and unfortunate encounters (Shcherbakova, 2020).

5.4 Hard to stay in touch with teachers

When students have problems with tasks or queries during a typical lesson, speak to the teacher, in general, is very convenient at a different time before or after lectures or schedules online meetings. However, as learners learn distance, they will have more trouble contacting their teacher. Although you can submit a text, you probably won’t get the immediate answer if you can sit with your teacher (Nazarov & Sergeeva, 2016)

Figure A-3. Overview of Advantages and Disadvantages of Blended Learning. https://raccoongang.com/blog/advantages-and-disadvantages-blended-learning/

5.5 Labour markets do not accept online degrees.

Shcherbakova (2020) posits that this might be very risky if you were entirely dependent on distance learning for graduation. You might have a degree, but you may not be welcomed by private companies in the job market and on the same topic as government jobs. Companies often prefer to study online or distance learning from a regular college. They claim distance learning is not yet a severe form of education.

5.6 Hidden costs

While online education costs are usually lower than that of a traditional curriculum, it may entail unspecified investment. For example, if a distance learning course is delivered online, you will have to pay additional costs, such as downloading a device and having a secure internet link. You can need to acquire external equipment, such as a printer, a web camera, and so on. Any expenses, such as repairs and power costs, can be periodic (Keegan, 1994)

6. Conclusion

There are no restrictions on future opportunities for distance learning. Distance learning programs and courses remain and develop in the future, but a range of uncertain topics remain to be explained and explored. Although distance learning can be at least as successful under some circumstances as conventional classroom learning, it has not been confirmed that e-learning can overtake traditional classroom learning. Distance learning comes with many positives and cons, much as every form of an educational program. It was best to ensure that these points were adequately evaluated until students take part in any distance learning curricula to ensure that they could achieve a degree that fits their particular interests, qualifications, and job objectives.

7. References

Ainin, S., Naqshbandi, M. M., Moghavvemi, S., & Jaafar, N. I. (2015). undefined. Computers & Education, 83, 64-73. 

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.compedu.2014.12.018

The American Journal of distance education. (2013). Open Learning: The Journal of Open, Distance and e-Learning, 28(3), 255-255. 

https://doi.org/10.1080/02680513.2014.895091

Brent, E. E., & Anderson, R. E. (1990). Computer applications in the social sciences. McGraw-Hill Companies.

Cheah, K. G. (2004). Learning at a distance: From principles to practice. Khairur Rahim Ahmad Hilme.

D.D.Aggarwal. (2007). History & scope of distance education. Sarup & Sons.

Duffy, T. M., & Jonassen, D. H. (2013). Constructivism and the technology of instruction: A conversation. Routledge.

Dumitru, A., & Vaceanu, A. (2014). Distance learning in the field of human and social sciences. Journal of Distance Learning and Open Learning, 2(3), 5-21. 

https://doi.org/10.21608/jdlol.2014.54930

E, O. (2013). E-learning and the future of distance education. Distance and E-Learning in Transition, 107-118. 

https://doi.org/10.1002/9781118557686.ch8

Howard, C., Schenk, K., & Discenza, R. (2004). Distance learning and University effectiveness: Changing educational paradigms for online learning. IGI Global.

Illeris, K. (2018). Contemporary theories of learning: Learning theorists … In their own words. Routledge.

Keegan, D. (1994). undefined. Open Learning: The Journal of Open, Distance and e-Learning, 9(2), 36-39. 

https://doi.org/10.1080/0268051940090206

Leonard, D. C. (2002). Learning theories, A to Z. Greenwood Publishing Group.

Lewis, R. (1997). Open learning in higher education. Open Learning: The Journal of Open, Distance and e-Learning, 12(3), 3-13. 

https://doi.org/10.1080/0268051970120302

Mirzakhani, M., Ashrafzadeh, H., & Ashrafzadeh, A. (2010). The virtual university: Advantages and disadvantages. 2010 4th International Conference on Distance Learning and Education. 

https://doi.org/10.1109/icdle.2010.5606048

Miyazoe, T., & Anderson, T. (2011). Viewing and participating: Blog visualization and its learning outcomes in blended learning. 2011 IEEE International Professional Communication Conference. 

https://doi.org/10.1109/ipcc.2011.6087217

Naidu, S. (1994). Applying learning and instructional strategies in open and distance learning. Distance Education, 15(1), 23-41. 

https://doi.org/10.1080/0158791940150104

Nazarov, A. I., & Sergeeva, O. V. (2016). The advantages of distance learning technologies: Students’ and university lecturers’ views. Open Education, (6), 42-50. 

https://doi.org/10.21686/1818-4243-2016-6-

Olson, M. H. (2015). Introduction to theories of learning (9th ed.). Psychology Press.

Pfau, M. (2018). Rhetoric and communication. Communication. 

https://doi.org/10.1093/obo/9780199756841-0203

Plotnikova, I. V., Efremova, O. N., Plotnikov, I. A., Chicherina, N. V., Tchaikovskaya, O. N., & Bastida, J. (2017). undefined. PONTE International Scientific Researchs Journal, 73(9). 

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Prologue: American higher education and World War II. (2019). American Higher Education since World War II, xvii-xxii. 

https://doi.org/10.1515/9780691190648-004

Sadeghi, M. (2019). A shift from classroom to distance learning: Advantages and limitations. International Journal of Research in English Education, 4(1), 80-88. 

https://doi.org/10.29252/ijree.4.1.80

Shcherbakova, D. (2020). Дистанционное обучение в период кризиса: возможности и недостатки online-технологий (Distance learning during the crisis: Opportunities and disadvantages of online technologies). SSRN Electronic Journal. 

https://doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.3584481

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Siemens, G. (2019). Learning analytics and open, flexible, and distance learning. Distance Education, 40(3), 414-418. 

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Sims, R. (2013). Which learning theories learning theories ? Design Alchemy, 49-61. 

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8. Appendix A:

Figure A-1. Overview of distance learning

Figure A-2. Distance education-eLearning industry overview.

Figure A-3. Overview of Advantages and Disadvantages of Blended Learning.