Distance education (also called distance learning, online education, or e-learning) is any educational program that allows students to earn a degree outside of a conventional, campus-based setting. Courses can be delivered in either a real-time format or a self-paced format, or in a combination of both. While real-time courses feature student-teacher interaction at prearranged times, self-paced courses allow students to determine their own schedules by accessing posted materials and completing assignments in a sequential format. Think about which course format best suits your needs and circumstances, as each instructional method has its own unique advantages.

	Glossary - Terms and acronyms related to distance education.