Distance Learning

Distant Learning from Home

Distance learning is something that students all around the world are experiencing together during 2020. Distance learning as defined by Merriam Webster as " a method of study where students and teachers do not meet in a classroom but use the internet, email, mail, etc., to have classes". In other words, students are separated from being in a classroom face to face with the teacher and their classmates.  Because distance learning can be remote, it can allow students to connect to universities all around the world. Distance learning is also more affordable for students which could allow students that could not afford to receive an education on campus to receive their education through distance learning instead. That is why distance learning is important and is considered by some students and professors.  

I am currently a master's student at UTK experiencing distance learning. I have taken online courses before, but never a full-time course load. It has been challenging figuring out group work using only online means of communication, but it has been nice to be at home in my room sipping coffee while speaking to my classmates over Zoom. Overall, I see the importance of distance learning and have personally changed my viewpoint on the subject. Before taking on a fulltime course load entirely online, I didn't think it could be done and be effective. But overall, my distance learning experience has been effective and I have learned perhaps just as much as I might have in a classroom face to face with my professor and classmates.