Learning from afar

Before plunging into the world of distance learning, beware of the pros and cons, writes Dr Ronald K Chung

Beyond the traditional methods of teaching - lecturing, tutorials, case studies and seminars - an increasingly popular method is what is generally known as distance learning. This means learning from a distance and usually involves study based on learning packs or study packs, with minimal instruction⁽¹⁾.

The general belief is that distance learning is nice ... it makes learning available "any time, anywhere". For business executives who have busy day-time jobs and travel all over the world, this learning method allows them access to knowledge and is flexible. That's the theory.

Here's my view: I'm still to be convinced! I know that's a strong statement about distance learning and the truth is that this method has come a long way from printed study packs, to radio, TV and, now, delivery through the Internet. It has been great for some people. However, what does "any time, anywhere" mean to you? To me, it means never.

If you are a busy executive who works 13-16 hours a day, how many items do you have to prioritise daily? Also, how do you prioritise them? Obviously, you work on the things that are most urgent. If there's one item on your list that says "can be done any time, anywhere", where does it fit on your priority list? How about the "maybe tomorrow" list? You got it! So, what's the likelihood of getting a degree and suffering through 12-16 subjects at a distance?

The proponents of distance learning may also claim that current technology can overcome some shortcomings, for instance by using lecture streaming. Well, lecture streaming is certainly a better mode of delivery than a study pack. Students get to see the lecturer and can definitely follow the concepts and logic better. However, have you ever slept through a TV programme or a movie? If you've slept through something entertaining, what's the likelihood of your learning effectively by passively participating in a video-streamed lecture?

Maybe I am somewhat overcritical of distance learning, but you do see my point. Distance learning works for very, very motivated people. For the rest of us mere mortals, distance learning with minimal instruction simply does not work.

Another reason why I'm suspicious of distance learning is that students miss a big part of learning - the learning experience among their peers. Today's technology allows interactive discussion over the Web, but this comes nowhere near face-to-face discussions and "dim sum" lunch gatherings afterwards. Imagine how much you can learn about and from your classmates, their work and their experiences in a casual conversation? Can you imagine anyone asking you what you do, in a class on the Internet?

Okay, that's my humble opinion of distance learning. It is great because it is available any time, anywhere, especially for those of us who are deprived of a learning opportunity. However, unless you are highly motivated, proceed with caution. If you want to try something out before going ahead, pick up a good, big, thick management book and have a go at reading it. If you get through it successfully, you may then proceed to distance learning.

Remember ... be prepared for tomorrow. Until next time, work hard, play hard.

(1) Strictly speaking, distance learning should include all programmes offered away from a main university campus, including all off-shore programmes offered by overseas universities that are taught by faculty members in Hong Kong. For the sake of clarity, I call taught off-shore programmes "distance delivery".

Acknowledgement Dr Ronald K Chung is academic development director of the ET Business College, a member of the Hong Kong Economic Times Group. He has worked for a number of private companies and universities in the United States, as well as Hong Kong's Consumer Council. To contact Dr Chung, please write to DrChung@etbc.com.hk.

Taken from Career Times 2004/01/30