title: (On)line dancing: choosing an appropriate distance education partner.
abstract: Online-delivered distance education is a burgeoning component of professional development and continuing education. Distance education programs allow individuals to learn in a different location and/or at a different time from fellow learners, thereby increasing the flexibility and number of learning options. Selecting the "right" program for personal development from the ever-growing body of online-delivered education is an individualized decision that can become an overwhelming and challenging process. This Tool presents four important definitions for navigating distance education program description materials and outlines a five-step process to assist in identifying an appropriate program for personal development. The five-step process includes key questions and points to consider while conducting a candid self-assessment, identifying and investigating distance education programs, and then compiling information, comparing programs, and prioritizing a list of programs suitable for application. Furthermore, this Tool highlights important websites for distance education degree program reviews, accreditation information, and open educational resources.
authors: 1East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA.
authors: Mindy
authors: M
authors: Menn
authors: J
authors: J
authors: Don Chaney
mesh_terms: D057189:Checklist; D002755:Choice Behavior; D003299:Cooperative Behavior; D004496:Education, Continuing / Q000379:methods*; D020375:Education, Distance; D006282:Health Personnel / Q000193:education*; D006801:Humans
keywords: continuing education; distance education; graduate education; health education