Distance Learning Schools

Private schools offering distance education courses

Distance learning at private schools is practical for a variety of reasons. In some cases, distance learning allows students to complete extra credits outside of class time. In other cases, students can indulge in independent study and advance through their programs faster. Some private school students use distance learning options to complete coursework over the summer.

We list numerous private schools offering distance education.

Private schools operate distance ed programs the same as other schools: courses are most often put online, monitored by a teacher and a grade is given to the student, the same as it would be for a regular classroom course.

Distance learning is offered as a support program by many different private schools and is made possible through the schools' optimal use of newer technology. Distance education programs have come a long way in the last few years thanks to the Internet. This type of learning is also known as virtual learning.

Some forms of distance learning predates the advent of the Internet and e-learning options. Sometimes, classes may have been recorded on tape. In other instances, all paper materials, ancillary text material and more is mailed to students.

Modalities of distance learning

There are two types of activities in a "virtual class." Synchronous activities require students to participate together at the same time as the teacher and other students. These might include teleconferencingor internet chat, while asynchronous activities are those that can be carried out on the student's own schedule.

Some educators fear that distance learning tends to offer a watered down education and students should parcel out their distance learning so that it is balanced out with a healthy dose of in-class instruction and social interaction.