Archive Website of the UK government

What are the benefits of e-learning?

e-learning makes use of information and communications technology to provide innovative ways to learn. Distance learning covers learning remotely on courses such as home study or 'self-study' courses, which can be combined with e-learning.

e-learning may appeal to you if you:

• Education and training (disabled people section)

How does e-learning work?

A variety of media is used to help with learning and to provide communication between learners and tutors. These include:

Your tutor can provide support by phone, email, online or by post. You might be able to communicate with other learners by email or website discussion groups. This helps you learn from the rest of the group and comment on each other's work. There is usually a good range of support available to help you organise your time and manage your learning.

To get a feel of what e-learning is like, try taking a free taster course online. If you don't have internet access at home, you can get free access at UK online centres and libraries. Staff will also be able to help you.

• BBC's free online learning courses in computer skills, languages, gardening and more Opens new window

• BBC guide to using the internet Opens new window

• Find your nearest UK online centre Opens new window

The Open University

The Open University (OU) is the largest university in Europe, with more than two million people taking courses to further their careers, make up for missed opportunities, or pursue personal interests.

Open University courses generally have no entry requirements, and no upper age limit. Courses range from short courses for people who have never studied before to specialist courses aimed at postgraduates. If you haven't studied for some time or are interested in a new subject, short courses and a special programme called the 'Openings Programme' can help you discover if OU study is right for you.

OU qualifications mark academic success but also show that you have commitment, ambition and self discipline.

• Find out more about learning with The Open University Opens new window

National Extension College

The National Extension College (NEC) helps people of all ages fit learning into their lives. The NEC supports over 10,000 learners a year on over 100 home study courses. The website has a range of features to help you study effectively. As a learner you can get online support and access to the NEC student group - a free online group, as well as other specific course groups.

• Find out more about learning with the National Extension College Opens new window

learndirect

If you want to gain a nationally recognised qualification in maths, English, IT and more then learndirect could be right for you. You’ll be able to learn at a time and place to suit you – either at home, work or in one of their centres around the country. You’ll have tutor support every step of the way, and there’s usually government funding available to cover the cost of your learning so you may not have to pay a penny.

• See what you can achieve with learndirect Opens new window

Find a distance learning course

You can search for distance learning courses and providers by using the National Careers Service course search.

• National Careers Service - find a distance learning course Opens new window

Useful contacts

• Adult learning contacts