The ideal definition of education includes a setting that features both student and teacher exchanging information.
In the typical educational setting, the teacher relays information to the student who imbibes it and is tested on it to determine the extent to which that information is understood.
The typical educational setting basically involves the fostering of knowledge in the student by the teacher.
When it comes to this setting, feedback is instant because both teacher and student are physically present in the same place.
In contrast, distance-learning programs do not feature both the student and the teacher in the same place physically.
In distance learning, a medium exists between the teacher and the student, which makes physical contact unnecessary.
Distance learning entails the fostering of knowledge in a student by the instructor who isn't physically present.
There is no form of contact between either of them.
Distance learning is implemented through a multiple of channels, the most popular one in our modern day being the Internet.
With distance learning, a student cannot see the instructor to ask questions to or receive feedback hence feedback is delayed.
Unlike the conventional school setting, distance-learning programs do not demand that your personal schedules revolve round it.
You get to decide when you want to study and are not subjected to the set study or lecture periods of a conventional educational system.
Distance learning programs feature modules that must be completed within a particular period.
Failure to do this can lead to you flopping the program entirely.
You will need to complete your tests and assignments at the time you deem fit to.
Distance learning programs are just as effective as on campus learning programs.
The only thing that makes it different is the conspicuous lack of a teacher plus flexibility in your study schedule.