Distance learning (education) is a modern system of non- formal education. It is imparted through correspondence or postal courses, contact, electronics media like radio, television, video and audio cassettes etc. and other audio - visual aids. Distance education is the method of learning at one's own pace in one's own time, without the boundaries of the formal class room and without the formal presence of the teacher. Distance education is theme of great interest as it plays a very important part in many societies. Computers, on the one hand, integration into modern culture, on the other hand can be recognized as a leading force in the growth of world economy. New technologies are being introduced continuously, and thereby become obsolete almost as soon as they occur. On the other hand, the rapid development of computer discipline has substantial effects on education, both at the educational content and methods of education. Distance education, structured learning in which the student and instructor are separated by place, and sometimes by time is currently the fastest growing form of domestic and international education. With the rise and proliferation of distance learning systems has come the need to critically examine the strengths and weaknesses of various programs.
A majority of new programs have been developed to meet the growing needs of higher education in responding to demands for flexible learning environments, continuing education and lifelong learning. Distance education opens endless possibilities in the fields of education and training. From webinars to videoconferencing, from fully online courses to shorter learning segments, distance education is happening in every corner of the world. This work, ‘Concepts of Distance Education’ covers concepts and principles of distance learning, the theoretical underpinnings of the field, research and application literature, and distance education delivery technologies. A systematic approach to the design, development, delivery, and evaluation of instruction for learner at a distance is emphasized. Due to the rapid development of technology, courses using a variety of media are being delivered to students in various locations in an effort to serve the educational needs of growing populations. This book is a fairly comprehensive presentation of distance education, how it has developed and what it is like in the first decade of the twenty-first century. It illuminates its practice and the thinking and theoretical approaches on which it is based and does so against the background of its historical development and technologies applied.
Waltraud Whittington obtained his MA in Education and Ph.D. in Education Technology from Public Research University, Kelowna. He has written several articles, research papers, and journals on teaching methods, e learning, and distance education. He is a Guest Lecturer at University College, Sinaloa. His researches focused on educational psychology, modern teaching methods and educational development. He is an active member and a regular contributor to several educational clubs and societies. Whittington has travelled and lectured extensively throughout Europe and United States; primarily for higher education.
