ABSTRACT
Distance learning has its roots in correspondence education conducted via mail. The student “corresponds” with the school in sending and receiving assignments, tests, and lessons. This method of education has been used in the United States for almost a century. Since the advent of information technologies, cable, satellite, wireless telecommunications, personal computers, and the Internet, a transformation of distance learning has taken place. For many world citizens, the services, content, and instant expertise available through these technologies is offered as an alternative to overpriced international telephone and postal services, and in a way that is not readily available locally. Issues of time, space, and geography are no longer hindrances for diverse populations to participate in higher education.
