Distance learning: Perspectives from a library technologist and student

Distance learning is becoming a fact of life in today's "information age." Using computers and modems, students can take college credit courses and earn degrees from their homes or place of business as opposed to being physically present in a lecture hall on a college or university campus. One noted higher education research and consulting firm estimates 55 percent of the U.S. institutions of higher learning offer some type of distance learning program today compared to 30 percent in 1994. The popularity and growth of online distance learning is expected to continue well into the future. This paper will focus on the advantages and disadvantages of long distance learning from the perspective of a library technologist who daily applies information technology in his career and as a distance learning student. Discussion will focus on a number of electronic resources that are available to distance learners to help them accomplish their research and complete their courses. This paper will, also focus on what online vendors need to do now, as well as in the future, to enhance the distance learning experience of the growing number of students using online resources.