By Distance Learning

Distance Learning is an increasingly popular method of study which suits people for many different reasons. Its defining feature is that students do not need to attend the awarding institution in person.

In most cases, students have the choice of when to study and how quickly they progress through the programme. This is crucial for people who have work, travel, family or financial commitments preventing them from taking up full time postgraduate study.

Study materials vary according to the programme but might include textbooks, study guides, CD-roms and videos. The Internet is becoming increasingly popular as a method of course delivery and some programmes offer tutorial and study material on-line. Students may also find it helpful to keep in touch with tutors and fellow students by email as this removes some of the isolation, which Distance Learning students often feel.

Studying at a distance is hard work, requiring dedication, self-discipline and perseverance. But the experience - described here by some Distance Learning postgraduate students - can be well worth the effort:

"I live in Vietnam and I am studying for a MSc in Health Systems Management by Distance Learning. Five of my work colleagues are studying for the same degree so we have formed a study group.

Our reason for choosing this method of study is that we have the advantage of getting good training while carrying on with our work. The lower cost of Distance Learning means that five of us can study together for the MSc for the same cost as one student going abroad and studying full-time. This is very important because our unit and our Medical School will benefit from more trained staff.

Another advantage of Distance Learning is that we do not have to be away from our home and family for a long time.

Whenever we receive the training material, we sit together and make a detailed study plan. We force ourselves to spend 2 - 3 hours every evening studying and we have regular group meetings. We also bring our study materials along even when we are in the field.

Distance Learning is a new experience for us and we are all working very hard. However, with good discipline and good team support we hope that we can overcome the challenges. Contact with our tutors and receiving a newsletter from the school makes us feel less isolated. We think that the results will make the hard work worthwhile."
Hoang Tu Anh, Vietnam.

"I currently work at the University of Natal in Durban, South Africa, where I am a consultant radiologist. I also manage radiological services for the Province of KwaZulu Natal, which involves 40 hospitals and clinics, mostly in rural areas. I soon became aware that I wanted to improve my management and financial skills as a doctor!

I have found studying for my MSc by Distance Learning both stimulating and enjoyable. It has broadened my view of health care and has helped me to see some of our health care problems in South Africa in a new light.
Distance Learning can be lonely, but access to email discussion groups has helped me meet colleagues studying all over the world. I particularly enjoy the flexibility of this form of learning. It has allowed me to study towards a degree when I would not otherwise have been able to do so."
Peter Corr, South Africa

"I am a self-employed Human Relations consultant in the Organizational Development (OD) field. Distance Learning had to be the way for me. I had to manage my business here, but more importantly, I did not want to leave my home and family for any lengthy period of time. I also did not want to give up my practical learning and experience - I wanted to have my cake and eat it too!

While studying I have been able to make the step up to an Independent International Consultant. I was commissioned for 2 major contracts in New Zealand. During that time I was able to continue my studies because of the flexibility of Distance Learning.

My biggest challenge has been managing home, work and studies. When I sat my exams last year it was hard because my husband wasn't very well. It was tough keeping myself focused on studies, and sometimes I felt guilty because I was taking time away from being with him. He was very supportive though and encouraged me when he felt that I wasn't putting enough effort into my studies. He's great that way.

Studying by Distance Learning is not easy - at all. But because more effort is required, more rewards are available to you at the end. There's a strong feeling of accomplishment and achievement knowing that even against the odds I have done it...that feeling is priceless for me."
Cassandra Patrovani-Smith, Trinidad.

"After leaving school, I took a BA in English and American Literature. This was followed by several years teaching in the UK and Africa, then marriage and a daughter.

My husband's work required frequent travel, so returning to work was difficult. I decided to register for a Diploma/MSc in Agricultural Development through Distance Learning, seeing this as an ideal route to a new career. The intellectual adventure of tackling a new discipline appealed to me and it could all be done from home; a case of minimum disruption for maximum returns.

I found the course materials well designed and prepared; they came complete with all the necessary study materials. Contact with tutors came through a system of submitting written assignments for marking and comment. I studied for a few hours each weekday and was very strict about this, guarding this time against all comers.

I completed the Diploma in two years and obtained a distinction which gave me the impetus to continue with a MSc. Now I am looking forward to a career that will use both my experience in education and the skills and knowledge I acquired from my four years of study."
Lynne Russell, Zambia/England.

Written by: Susan Gidman, University of London

Remember
At any time you can click on our Information Form Service in order to have your details circulated to multiple academic institutions so they can mail you comprehensive further information and brochures. Remember this service is completely free of charge.

If you have any comments or queries relating to this site please email:
webmaster@internationaledu.net