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The Distance Learner's Guide, 2/E
Western Cooperative for Edu. Telecommunications

ISBN-10: 0131145401
ISBN-13: 9780131145405

Publisher: Prentice Hall
Copyright: 2005
Format: Paper; 176 pp
Published: 05/19/2004

Suggested retail price: $28.33
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This book is appropriate for any distance learning course or any course on technology where on-line learning is covered.

This one-stop reference provides everything the distance learner or prospective distance learner needs to be effective in the on-line learning environment. From defining distance learning to overcoming personal barriers to success in distance learning, this book deals with each and every issue students of any age, stage, or situation are likely to encounter. Once a student's first DL class is over, this book will remain a valuable reference for all other choices and options for the continuing DL student. The authors represent the most well-rounded team of distance learning experts available.

  • NEW - Companion Website (http:www.DLGuide.info)Offers indepth and up-to-date material.
    • Expands the book's content.
  • NEW - UpdatedIncludes new developments in technology and practices.

    • Provides students with the most current text on the subject available.

  • Simple format with a comprehensive organization.

    • Gives students a text that is easy to read and can be used as a resource.

  • Advice for wise decision-making.

    • Guides students through all aspects of distance learning, enabling them to make good choices.

  • Advice for the successful use of Distance Learning Tools.

    • Provides students with excellent guidance on computer selection and use.

  • Advice for succeeding as a Distance Learner.

    • Guides students in the proper use of remote library resources.

  • Evaluation of potential Distance Learning providers.

    • Enables students to avoid the pitfalls of fake colleges and fraudulent degrees; they will save valuable time and money.

  • Guidance on study strategies.

    • Ensures students' success in reaching learning goals.

  • Questions and AnswersFeatures in every chapter the most commonly asked questions.

    • Follows students' logical thinking, allowing them to form answers which suit their unique DL needs.

  • Student vignettesShowcase a variety of real students as they think through specific issues relative to distance learning.

    • Allows students to see firsthand the thought process involved in best decision-making.

  • Chapter summaries.

    • Helps students understand the important points in each chapter, aiding in their retention of the information provided.

  • Companion Website (http:www.DLGuide.info)Offers indepth and up-to-date material.
    • Expands the book's content.
  • UpdatedIncludes new developments in technology and practices.
    • Provides students with the most current text on the subject available.

(NOTE: Each chapter is introduced by What You Will Learn in This Chapter.)

1. Distance Learning: College Comes to You.

The Purpose of the Guide. Organization of the Guide. What Is Distance Learning? Who Offers Distance Learning Programs? Online and Virtual Universities. Why Study at a Distance? Distance Learning: How Quickly It Changes. Technology-Supported Learning. Technologies Used in Distance Learning. Which Technology Is Best? Synchronous Versus Asynchronous Communication: A Crucial Difference. Who Are Distance Learners? Earning a Degree. The Quality Question. Is Distance Learning for You? Caution: Long-Term Planning Ahead. Beware of Diploma Mills. Summary: You're on Your Way.



2. Choosing a Distance Education Provider: Asking the Right Questions.

Locating Distance Education Providers and Programs. Providers Close to Home. Regional and National Providers. Using Print and Electronic Sources to Find a Provider. Summary: Know What to Expect.



3. The Role of the Computer in Distance Learning: Succeeding Online.

Why You Need a Computer. Using Your Computer for Distance Learning Courses. What Kind of Computer Is Required for College Courses? Shopping for Computing Equipment and Software. Selecting an Internet Service Provider (ISP). Are You Ready for Online Courses? Summary: Questions to Ask Prospective Distance Education Providers.



4. The Distance Learner's Library: The Indispensable Guide to Finding Quality Resources.

Today's Libraries. Elements of Library Access. What Services Are Available and How Effective Are They? Using the Internet and the World Wide Web. Summary: Questions and Choices.



5. Understanding Your Needs: Overcoming the Personal Barriers to Success in Distance Learning.

Learning from Others. Where to Learn More. Clarifying Your Goals and Attitudes. The Essence of Being Human: Too Many Roles, Too Little Time. Developing Systems of Academic and Social Support. Health and Wellness: There Is a Relationship to College Success. Summary: A Final Note.



6. Becoming a Better Distance Learning Student: Steps to Success.

Introduction. Learning to Learn. Study Guides. Note Taking. Time and Stress Management. Reading Guides. Writing Papers. Tests and Other Anxieties. Computer and Internet Literacy. Some Final Tips for Becoming a Better Student. Summary: Just a Beginning!



Final Word.


Index.

"The Distance Learner's Guide is an excellent common sense introduction to the context and characteristics of distance learning. More than an abstract treatment, the Guide is a practical and effective resource for initial implementation and day-to-day practice for educational programs and student support services offered by distance learning modalities." — Ronald L. Baker, Ed.D., Deputy Executive Director, Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

"The Distance learner's Guide is the most comprehensive guide of its kind I have ever read ...all who are interested in distance learning as an option will save a lot of time and effort by reading this guide." — Alfredo G. de los Santos, Jr., Research Professor, Arizona State University

"This book provides a concise, practical, step-by-step approach to navigating the maze of details confronting a first-time distance learner, from quizzing the reader on self-motivation and the demands of distance learning, to clarifying the need for social and institutional support and communication." — Butch Gemin, Director of Business Development, Monterey Institute Technology and Education

"It answers every possible question a novice OR experienced distance learner can imagine—from getting oriented to the very idea of learning at a for distance, to addressing pragmatic concerns to manage one's learning time on task—all the way to offering advice on logistical concerns such as selecting the right hardware and software tools. This guide is full of practical, useful advice that can't help but ensure better and more engaging learning experiences—anytime, anywhere." — Ellen Wagner, Macromedia Education

The Distance Learner's Guide, Second Edition, is designed to empower first-time college students, returning college students, and former distance learning students.

View a Sample Chapter PDF:

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