10 Reasons Why Distance Learning
Graduates Are In Demand

Here are ten of the best reasons why people are saying, "good-bye" to outdated correspondence course stereotypes and "hello" to distance education students.

1. Responsibility
Studying online takes a real commitment to keep up independently and employers are recognizing the value of an employee who has the determination and self-motivation to advance through the distance learning process. (Eastman, Robert, 2000)

2. Dedication
Distance education students are by definition, goal-oriented individuals who see education as an ongoing process. They're driven to be lifelong learners, both online and on the job. (Kearsley, G., Lynch, W., and Wizer, D., 1995)

3. Quality
Students who participate in web-based instruction tend to earn equal or higher grades than students in conventional versions of the same classes. Virtual graduates also reported feeling better equipped to enter the workforce. (Russell, Thomas, "The No Significant Difference Phenomenon", 1999)

4. Distinguished Alumni
Abraham Lincoln, Franklin D. Roosevelt, Charles Shultz, Walter Cronkite, Berry Goldwater, Walter P. Chrysler, and Ben & Jerry's co-founder Jerry Greenfield are but a few of the well-known Americans who have benefited from distance education. (http://www.About.com)

5. Resourceful
Whether this is an instinctual trait or a learned survival tool, distance education students tend to be quick to sift through large amounts of information, analyse their successes, and turn failures into opportunities. (Eastman, Robert, 2000)

6. Multitasking Skills
This group performs effectively in a multitask environment because the majority of distance education students are full- or part-time working adults who juggle job, coursework, and family responsibilities. They understand the need to prioritize. (Corporation for Public Broadcasting/Annenberg Project, 1988)

7. Motivation
Online learners tend to be motivated self-starters with the ability to take assignments to completion. Distance learners are able to adapt to dynamic environments and thrive on challenge. (Primary Research Group, Inc., 1999)

8. In Demand
Online learners have earned equal recognition when vying for job openings with their peers from traditional campus-style schools. Current trends show recruiters are rounding up individuals with specific skills training acquired online for both permanent placement and outsourcing assignments. (http://www.HR.com)

9. Forward Thinkers
Research indicates that online students are open-minded, flexible about workplace demands, and willing to adapt to tomorrow's technology. (Chronicle of Higher Education. November 4, 1999)

And the number one benefit society reaps from distance education is...

10. Diversification
Distance education has the potential to reach almost any audience, opening doors for talented people who would otherwise not be able to attend school due to remote location, finances, employment restrictions, lack of transportation and childcare issues. Distance education results in a diversified talent pool. (Open Learning Agency of Australia, 2001)