Defining Distance Learning

Defining Distance Learning

The first thing for you to know is what distance learning is and the terminology with online learning. Distance learning unlike traditional learning takes place outside of a normal physical classroom. In the distance learning classroom, discussions take place in an asynchronous environment, meaning that the students and instructor are not in the classroom at the same time so conversations are posted at different times in a computer network format called a forum. The forum is basically a continuous conversation where each individual types in or “posts” their thoughts or answers to an existing conversation, this is called a threaded discussion. This is, in fact the classroom and is the place to ask questions and communicate with others in the class. There are some important factors to remember when communicating in this type of environment: You have to keep in mind that the person with whom you are speaking cannot see you, so careful attention must be paid as to how you format and phrase what you post in the forums. Always be aware with whom you are communicating, do not phrase statements in language that the reader may not understand and be respectful and courteous to your audience at all times.

Available Resources at Axia

The key to completing successfully your education at Axia College is the ability to do research on your individual project. Axia College has an extensive online library that is available to students. The library has three main areas: A series of article databases, other research methods and a place to ask a librarian for help. The library has an extensive tutorial that will assist you in learning how to find the materials that you need when doing a research project; the library manual also contains much information on how to navigate, find and use the materials that are in the library. Like any physical library the online library at Axia is categorized in major databases and specialized databases of information. All types of periodicals, full text documents, and other college papers can be located within these divided categories. One important aspect of the papers and research found in the library is that many of the documents are “peer reviewed”. These are research documents that have been reviewed and checked for accuracy among the author’s peers. This is important when locating materials for use in a research project because these documents are more likely to be accurately cited and verifiable with their sources. Finding these documents within the University library is as easy as checking the “peer reviewed” check box when doing your search.

Academic Honesty and Integrity

Honesty and integrity are important to Axia College, this does not stop at the academic level but extends into the job market and personal life. Axia College offers many tools to aid in writing your papers. From the main log in screen you can access the “Center for Writing Excellence” where there are several resources to aid you in academic writing and the expectations of Axia College. The primary tool from here is the documentation