Distance Education as a vehicle of non-formal education

Distance education is a modern system of non- formal education.

Distance education and non-formal education goal is to increases access to learning
opportunities. Distance learning serves learners who are not likely to attend traditional
classroom instruction like non-formal education.

Learning is a lifelong process, important to successful participation in the social,

cultural, civic, and economic life of a democratic society.

Distance education, also called distance learning, e-learning, and online learning,
Distance Education where teachers and students are separated in the place and time.
The gap between the two can be bridged through the technology. Particularly those
relying on computers, audio or video technology as the medium of delivery and,
sometimes, for two-way instruction.

Distance education traditionally has focused on nontraditional students, such as full-

time workers, military personnel, and nonresidents or individuals in remote regions who
are unable to attend classroom lectures. However, distance education has become an
established part of the educational world, with trends pointing to ongoing growth.

One of the most prominent types of educational institutions that make use of distance
education is the Open University or virtual University, which is open in the sense that it
admits nearly any adult.

Important Features of Distance Education

Provides learning opportunities
Provides learning opportunities to individual learners and groups who may not have the
chance and time to attend formal schooling.

Learner centered
All activities planned according to the learner needs and interests.

Easy Access
Provides learning packages designed for self- directed learning utilizing various media,
multi- media and other new technologies.

Organizational structure
Has an organizational structure and clear institutional systems.

Explosion of knowledge
There is explosion of knowledge because of rapid scientific and technological
developments. The formal system of education on account of its rigidity and high cost,
finds it difficult to incorporate new changes speedily as desired.

Population Explosion
Unprecedented growth rate of population has resulted in the corresponding increase in
students. The formal education system serves a selected and limited number of
students.

Varied Needs
Distance learning is needed to satisfy the varied needs of varied students.

Earning while Learning

Distance education is especially needed for those who want to learn while learning.

Desire to Improve Qualifications

There are many people who want to improve their education qualification while they are
in jobs. Distance learning provides opportunities to such people to improve their
qualifications.

Geographical Isolation
People may be geographical isolated because of distance or because a communication
system has not been developed.

Social Isolation
People may be socially isolated or disadvantaged due to financial, physical, emotional
or family circumstances.

For Different Ages

Distance learning can be used to teach people of different ages and to teach courses
from a wide range of discipline areas.

Universal Education
Distance learning is needed to achieve the cherished goal of the nation for
universalization of education.

Democratic Aspirations
Distance learning is needed to meet the great demand for democratisation of education
from those sections of society that are neglected.

Self - Improvement
Distance learning is needed from the point of view of self-learning and self-improvement
of an individual who , otherwise is deprived of receiving proper education.

Boon for In - Service Aspirants

Open universities is a boon for in- service aspirants. They can improve their educational
qualifications and by doing so, they can brighten up their chances of promotion.

Easy Access
It provides opportunities to large number of people who had previously been denied
such opportunities.

Govt. of Punjab establish Non-formal Basic education system in 2002 with the
cooperation of international and National institutions with the aim to serves learners
who are not likely to attend traditional schools.