The recent explosion in distance learning programs on the world-wide web has spawned a lively debate on the future and the potential of these programs. While distance learning will clearly play a growing role in higher education and professional training in the years ahead, it is unclear how prominent that role will be. Here we outline the main advantages and disadvantages of distance learning programs over traditional instruction. We also identify some common beliefs on distance learning and question the validity of those beliefs.
Ugo A. Buy