THE ADVANTAGES OF DISTANCE EDUCATION FOR WORKING PROFESSIONALS: AN INDIAN PERSPECTIVE

Abstract

Distance learning is a specialized form of teaching and learning system where learners are connected with educational resources. This system is specifically designed to be carried out remotely by using electronic communication for those learners who aren’t enrolled in educational institutions. Popular distance learning education includes video technologies, Webcast, MP3 recordings, videoconferencing, information delivered over internet, etc. Distance education can benefit students with scheduling or distance problems along with working professionals for who timing can be a problem.Companies nowadays not only look for skilled professionals but prefer to hire people who have a professional degree along with the desired skill set. There are thousands of people in India who could not pursue a higher degree after their graduation and moved into the corporate sector. India as a whole is a developing country and most graduates join a job to support their family in monetary terms. Also for a labour intensive country like India, more men are required for field jobs. Hence, distance learning is a boon for such professionals because it is time flexible and cheaper than a regular program. The demand for distance learning education has also grown over the recent years. After privatization has set in the Indian scenario, education system has been hit hard leading to the growth of distance education. Along with creativity and technological advancements, distance education has been given a definite shape. This paper thus portrays, that programs like these are a good platform for working professionals to make their dreams come true.