Long Distance Learning

Not long ago a long distance education usually consisted of mail correspondence where the school sent you material to master and study and you sent in your work to be graded and evaluated. This is still possible, but the computer and the Internet have revolutionized distance learning so much so that virtually everyone who has the Internet can get a long distance education.

Long distance learning, while extremely popular with and convenient for those of us who have families and a full time job, shouldn't be taken for granted. In many ways taking an online course is just as hard as getting one in the traditional way. There are three critical skill that you have to learn before you should even attempt to take an online course.

1. Email: the first is pretty obvious: learning how to operate an email program, including opening and sending attachments.
2. Comprehension: not only do you have to be able to read your email, you must be able to comprehend it, i.e., understand what you're reading.

In addition to doing a lot of writing for an online course, you will not only be expected to do a lot of reading, your teacher/tutor will be giving you a lot of instructions including a syllabus which should tell you what to read and write and when. A great deal will depend on how well you follow these instructions and to what extent you are motivated to keeping pace with the course.

Falling behind and not following instructions are the two biggest mistakes most students will make.

3. Participation: an online course requires participation. Too many students fail miserably on this score. In order to participate, you not only have to be there, but you have to contribute to the discussion a certain number of days a week. Most programs require five days out of seven. If this is a problem, you probably need to consider a different type of learning, or be prepared to have an earnest discussion with your instructor on the first day of class.

There are several recognized and established universities in Canada and the United States that are offering degrees in a variety of subjects through distance learning education programs. Today, online learning has become one of the fastest growing area in education. If you are looking to getting involved in this long distance learning phenomenon, here are the top three most popular universities in Canada and the United States that you must consider:


With the arrival of the modern computer and the World Wide Web or the Internet, distance learning has evolved into a critical component of modern education. Most colleges and universities in North America offer courses online, while an entire industry has developed around the concept of online learning. There are every conceivable online course available to members of the general public. The wonderful thing about distance online learning is that there are no national borders, and potential students around the world now have access to the same opportunities. Online learning has the ability to make the world a better place. In some ways, it already has. Below are some of the top long distance schools:

University of PhoenixUniversity of Phoenix

Since 1976 the University of Phoenix has helped close to half a million students overcome the challenges of balancing work and money to earn their long distance learning degree. As one of the leading universities to offer 100+ long distance learning courses at all levels, the University of Phoenix offers quality education in a broad range of subjects from business to science and education. If you're thinking about getting your degree, we can help you reach your goal while you work and much sooner than you might expect.

Kaplan UniversityKaplan University

There are a number of universities or colleges that offer long distance learning in a variety of subjects, but one critical feature that sets Kaplan University apart from the others, is their emphasis on showing students how to absorb and apply the knowledge acquired in that process. Today Kaplan University is thought of as one of the few well renowned universities in Canada and the United States that offers master's, bachelor's, associate's, and professional degrees as long distance programs.

Strayer University

Strayer University is another one of those schools where students can get a long distance learning degree. It is one of the few universities around that provides various distance learning programs as convenient as possible and quality education in a supportive environment. They even offer advice on scholarships, current degree requirements and guidelines for financial assistance. Their flexible academic programs make it possible for you to earn a competitive bachelor's or master's degree on your schedule, without interrupting your personal or professional life.

Argosy UniversityArgosy University

At Argosy University our long distance learning programs are designed to suit your lifestyle. Depending on the program you select, you may be able to choose from day, evening and weekend schedules. Many of our classes are accessible online providing outstanding instruction and resources no matter where you are or what time of day it is. We offer the most flexible and convenient learning formats available online which allows you to log into online classes any time of the day or night. Check us out today.

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