Distance Education
Distance education, also called online education, home study, correspondence study or Internet-based learning, is designed for learners who live at a distance from educational providers and/or institutions. It is the formal enrollment and study with an educational institution that provides organized, formal learning opportunities for students. Presented in a sequential and logical order, the instruction is offered wholly or primarily by distance study, through virtually any media. Historically, its predominant medium of instruction has been printed materials, however today it may incorporate or make use of videotapes, CD or DVD ROM’s, audio recordings, audio-conferencing, telephone communications, e-mail, and Web-based delivery systems through the Internet. The student completes each lesson or segment and submits it for correction, grading, comment, and guidance by a qualified instructor.

(Reference: DETC Handbook, January, 2012)