| The tools and programs used in distance learning | | | | essential for the completion of any online learning |
| programs vary depending on the type of program. | | | | coursework these days. Students can use these |
| There are high school diploma programs, certificate | | | | programs for writing papers, creating documents, |
| programs, associate's degree programs, bachelor's | | | | putting together presentations and completing |
| degree programs, master's degree programs and PhD | | | | assignments for computer technology classes. |
| programs. Students can complete degrees and | | | | Curriculum may be distributed on CD-ROMs, and |
| certificates in science, history, computer technology, | | | | traditional textbooks may still be used. |
| nursing, English, business, sociology and practically any | | | | Most distance learning programs involve some sort of |
| other subject area. All of the courses for these | | | | learning management system and/or learning content |
| various programs will require different tools. There are | | | | management system, which is basically a type of |
| some tools and programs, however, which any online | | | | software that is used to deliver, manage and track the |
| learning student can expect to use in the 21st century. | | | | educational process. Learning management software |
| Communication technology is a big part of any online | | | | programs can be used to manage educational records, |
| learning program these days. In the past, students | | | | distribute coursework and collaborate with other |
| might have completed assignments on worksheets or | | | | students on projects. Learning content management |
| out of workbooks and turned them in through the mail, | | | | programs are used for adding, editing, indexing and |
| but computer technology has changed that. Obviously, | | | | creating content that students can access. |
| students in distance learning courses rely on | | | | The other tools used in distance learning vary |
| computers and Internet access these days. Students | | | | depending on the type of subject you are studying. |
| communicate with their teachers and with one another | | | | Math programs may require specialized calculators, for |
| through email, discussion boards and virtual classrooms. | | | | example, while Web design courses will require |
| Blogs and wikis also provide opportunities for | | | | specific software tools. With modern technology tools, |
| communication and information sharing among faculty | | | | distance learning courses are more effective than |
| and student peers. | | | | ever. |
| Programs such as the Microsoft Office Suite are | | | | |