Outline on the benefits of distance learning - Essay Example

Presentation Distance Learning is for Everyone Presentation Type: Informative Presentation Topic: Distance Learning I. Introduction A. Attention Grabber: Mark Twain once quipped "I never let my schooling interfere with my education" (as cited in Mark Twain quotes) 1. Don't let old school attitudes prevent you from getting an education. B. Thesis: Distance learning is easier, more personal, and more affordable than a traditional campus education. C. Preview: I'm going to show you how you can get an accredited degree with a schedule that is tailored to your job, your lifestyle, and your financial situation.II. Body A.

Distance learning is easy and convenient for everyone. 1. Online educational programs are easy for anyone to learn. a. Does not require special computer skills2. You can arrange class time around your present schedule.3. There are no geographical limitations.a. There are a wide variety of classes and programs available, without the need to live close to them. B. Distance learning is more "personal and interactive" (Advantages, 2004).1. Communication with instructors is more personal through e-mail than in a classroom setting. a. Help is always available and is only an e-mail away.2. You can learn with your own personal approach to study. a. Classes are delivered to the comfort of your home.3. You have a greater share of the responsibility for structuring your own learning environment (Advantages, 2004). a. More personal responsibility translates to higher motivation. C. Distance learning has the flexibility to meet your financial situation.1. Total cost of tuition and fees is generally less than classroom instruction (Taylor, Parker III & Tebeaux, 2001, 23) a.

No parking fees b. No University fees for unused services.2. You have fewer personal expenses a. Saves on transportation costs b. No need for daycare3. Distance learning allows you to maintain a full time job while attending class.III. Conclusion A. Summary: Distance learning is easy and available for everyone. 1. Personalized learning format 2. No scheduling or geographic limits 3. More affordable than attending class on campusB. Conclude: Don't let your old school attitude stand in the way of examining a new approach to education.

Distance learning makes it possible for everyone to get a college degree.Reasoning Behind the Outline Structure I opened the presentation with a Mark Twain quote to get the audiences' attention and break the ice. I chose this particular quote because Twain is a well-known humorist and the quote relates to education that the audience will identify with. I then stated what the presentation would include and what the audience could expect to learn.I presented the ease and convenience of distance learning right up front.

I wanted the audience to be comfortable with the idea that they could do it and be open to listening to the whole presentation. The first main topic was an attempt to include everyone and dispel any technical objections that they might have. The second main topic was to present a look at distance learning from the standpoint of being independent, but not isolated. It was meant to provide a glimpse of its structure. The third main topic was in reference to the cost. This is often a major obstacle to education and I wanted to end the presentation with it.

By this point they will have gotten an interest in distance learning and it was a natural next question to answer. I concluded by summarizing the main topics and highlighting the most relevant issues. I then closed by indirectly referring back to the Twain quote. This will leave the audience back on familiar ground, comfortable with the presentation, and will smooth the transition to a question and answer period. ReferencesAdvantages of online learning (2004). Retrieved October 27, 2006, from http://www.

cincinnatistate.edu/CurrentStudent/Academics/AcademicDivisions/About_DL.htmMark Twain quotes (2006). Retrieved October 27, 2006, from http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/quotes/m/marktwain137887.htmlTaylor, T. H., Parker III, G. D., & Tebeaux, E. (2001). Confronting cost and pricing issues in distance education. Educause Quarterly, 16-23. Retrieved October 27, 2006, from http://www.educause.edu/ir/library/pdf/eqm0131.pdf