Distance learning is a form of education where learning occurs without students being physically present in the class. Distance learning wasn’t an alien term; however, COVID-19 has escalated the consumption of it. The shift in classroom teaching to virtual teaching has been very beneficial in recent times. Given the current scenario, some students might want to indulge in distance learning.
Distance learning is gaining popularity with passing times. It is more accessible around the world. There is a wide range of courses that are offered by multiple reputed universities. Moreover, studying online costs less than a full-time degree offers the same qualifications, and you get to learn from highly-qualified experts, just like you would in class.
The education system of the UK successfully contributes to distance learning. There are multiple universities that offer online courses for students at both the graduate and postgraduate levels.
Some of those universities are mentioned below.
University of Manchester
The University of Manchester is a first-choice institution for online and blended learners from all over the world. It is a world leader in both teaching and research, ranked 5th in the UK. the aim of Manchester is to bring this excellence into their online and blended learning courses.
Just like any course of study, distance learning involves a series of lectures supplemented by further reading material, periodic tests, coursework assignments, and regular tutorials. The difference is that all of this activity takes place online. These courses are web-based and are delivered through self-study. In addition, some programs even offer a combination of both online and campus learning, better known as blended learning.
There are 2 streams in online learning, MOOCs and postgraduate online and blended courses. MOOCs are massive open online courses. For MOOCs, all you need is a secure internet connection. Manchester offers these courses through Coursera and FutureLearn. Unlike other courses, they are free of cost. A typical MOOC lasts for six to eight weeks. At the time of completion, you may have to pay a small fee for the certificate.
On the contrary, postgraduate online and blended courses are full-time programs and paid. Domains such as business & leadership, education, engineering, law, and health are covered under this scheme.
The fee structure varies from course to course. Moreover, some courses might be entirely online and some can be blended. You can visit the official website for further details.
University of Liverpool
Liverpool is providing online learning since 2000. It is one of the leading providers of online learning. The course that is offered at Liverpool is at the post-graduate level. These programs require you to have a bachelor’s degree or equivalent. Some degrees might require additional work experience.
The courses that are offered include sports business, healthcare leadership, health psychology, and many more.
Open University
The open university is the UK’s largest academic institution and a world pioneer in distance learning. It has taught more than 2 million students worldwide. The support that is provided at open university is one of the reasons students choose this institution.
There are only 2 things you need to start your learning, computer, and internet access secondly a good grasp of the English language. The academic requirements include no formal qualifications for an undergraduate degree.
However, for postgraduate degrees, you require an undergraduate degree or equivalent. For most Open university modules, you will be expected to spend at least a few sessions per week.
The student satisfaction at this university is significantly high, with many of its students and alumni admitting to having had an excellent experience not only with the quality of teaching but also with the materials that were used.
In addition, this university has won numerous awards that recognize the university’s ability to deliver outstanding distance learning courses and complete practical work online by providing remote access to laboratories as well as observatories.
University of Northampton
NILE (Northampton Integrated Learning Environment) is a dedicated online university learning space for students. You will use NILE to access course materials, assessment information, and discussion boards.
You will have the opportunity to decide on your own study schedule, engage with fellow students, as well as gain the skills and knowledge to succeed in your dream career. During your time as a student, you will get to study through the materials the university offers, research topics, solve problems, and you’ll also have access to a course tutor.
This tutor will support you throughout your studies making sure you don’t stumble upon any issues and finish your program successfully. This university also offers a number of scholarships and awards to help students with their fees.
Anglia Ruskin University
Distance learning is really great when you are working full-time. Distance Learning is a growing area at ARU. Within Learning Development Services, two units support the development of distance learning: Anglia Learning & Teaching (pedagogic support and advice, CPD opportunities) and Distance Learning (distance learning projects and services, marketing and costing)
Distance learners at this university get full support throughout their program receiving advice and regular feedback from expert tutors. While enrolled in a course at this university you will get to use their online learning management system, have access to numerous study resources, and attend workshops.
Edinburgh Napier University
At Edinburgh Napier, you have a choice between a large number of courses. BA, BSc, MA, MSc, and postgraduate. The pedagogies that are practiced here are unique and fulfilling. Through the online distance learning courses at Edinburgh Napier University, you won’t have to worry about missing out on your degree program.
Their courses are flexible, meaning you will be able to fit them into your schedule just as you see fit. All you need is your laptop and you’re good to go. The Global Online courses at this university have a variety of perks the likes of 24/7 support through their virtual online help desk, no exams, multiple start dates, pay for one module at a time, as well as studying at your own pace. If you finish your course successfully you will earn a globally recognized qualification which will help you build your dream career.
University of Birmingham
Distance learning is also available at the University of Birmingham through their wide variety of courses you can take from the comfort of your home, in or outside of the UK. Opting for distance learning means you will have it easier to balance the degree program with other commitments you might have, be them work, family, or other.
You will be offered a lot of encouragement during your studies through the supporting university staff, who will be able to answer any questions you might have in relation to anything regarding university. At the University of Birmingham, you can choose from a long list of postgraduate degree programs in a variety of study areas.