Student Preparation

Student preparation for distance education coursework is similar to preparation for traditional postsecondary education coursework. Students in distance education do face additional challenges and have some additional needs that must be met. On the other hand, students often take advantage of unique aspects of distance education formats that alleviate challenges in traditional formats. As a result of the similarities in [Page 426]preparation, students in distance education programs and coursework exhibit many of the same outcomes as those in traditional classrooms: academic success as well as academic struggle and failure. Student preparation will be examined in this entry in three aspects: going to college (prior to enrollment); preparing for class (ongoing issues and tasks); and preparing for program completion (considering next steps).