Distance Learning Literature Review

This has in turn given rise to distance learning whereby, through the digital space, institutions of higher education have made it possible for individuals to pursue different courses without having to leave their home countries to study abroad. With the use of technology, students can pursue their desired courses online for the prescribed period and earn their certification at the end. Question 1 Online classes have made it possible for many students to advance their education in various disciplines without the worry of costs and having to move to a new country. Ideally, through the internet and developed institution portals, students only have to meet the required admission requirements, pay the tuition fees and then gain access to the institution’s online learning system.

The online learning system involves the students having to interact and attend the classes virtually through the availed digital platforms. In studies conducted in comparison of the outcomes of online studies and the traditional approach of learning, Kirtman (105) finds that majority of those who take online classes perform at a rate of 20 percent better than students who attend physical classes. In essence, it is evident that students who take up distance learning are as scholarly as their counterparts. Question 2 Algorithms are applied in the grading systems in many learning institutions for the purpose of ensuring that the students work towards attaining the highest grade possible from the provided criteria. The grading systems thus are used across all disciplines and discussions as well.

The grading of papers may be different from the grading of discussions, and therefore, it is expected that the provided criteria is followed to the latter (Universities UK 3). These are the major areas in which the grades are accorded to the students. The similarity in the expectations is essentially due to the fact that a given standard and regulation criteria has to be observed. Further, it would be rather unfair to have different expectations especially if the course in question is offered in the same manner both in the traditional classroom and online. In order to maintain consistency and fairness to the students, the grading expectations are the same and the students are tasked with the responsibility of ensuring that they achieve the highest results.

Question 3 Examination irregularities such as students cheating are common malpractices that are experienced by majority of the higher learning institutions. Subject to this, the prevalence of cheating and gaming in the traditional learning setting is lower compared to the online learning setting. Furthermore, while online learning may employ the use of software that detects any forms of cheating and gaming in examinations, students continue to find ways to circumvent technology and therefore create loopholes to their advantage. Conclusion The adoption of technology in the education sector has brought about advantages to both institutions and students. The education sector has benefitted immensely from the adoption of technology thus providing students from all over the world with the chance to pursue their desired disciplines from the best institutions globally.