of this program is completed before any face-to-face sessions begin.
3) Students are provided with varied assignments and examinations which test understanding of the prescribed material. These assignments can take place at various intervals throughout the course, some during face-to-face sessions and some after them, as a means of consolidating the concepts, techniques and problems which have been covered.
4) A telephone help-line is usually available to deal with students' questions regarding the prescribed reading or assignments. Some organizations operate a telephone 'push' line, which monitors progress and encourages students rather than waiting for them to initiate the contact.
5) Students enrolled in distance learning programs are normally expected to complete a mock examination in their own time, but under examination conditions. This work is marked and returned with supporting comments.
Distance learning in various forms is now being developed by several institutes, for example, the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants, the Association of Corporate Treasurers and the Association of Chartered and Certified Accountants have developed distance learning programs for banking employees and officials. Many other organizations, corporations, and institutions have similar programs. In the future, computer-based networks using computer assisted distance learning will increasingly be used to assist the learning process, and electronic mail will be increasingly available to support the tutor based help-line.
In terms of the technology involved in distance learning, there are indications that two-way fiber optics systems hold the most advantages for distance learning programs, but the cost may force school districts to consider other options (Satterlund & Knox-Pipes, 1993). The fiber optics system allows for greater interaction among students and teachers, who are able to see and communicate with each oth...