Another fact to keep in mind is that because of the demanding schedules of individuals wishing or needing to pursue degrees at their own convenience or without relocation, distance education has evolved into many different forms. One of these is of course the online course. You can actually enter a full two year program right from your desk at home. You can complete all the required courses and assignments and receive an accredited certificate for your education. Many professors host classes in a chat room setting so that anyone that wants to answer or ask questions can do so instantly. Homework can be emailed or uploaded onto the class website.
In addition, distance learning is often more affordable than a traditional education. For parents that can't leave their home to employees who need to make money, you can still receive an education. Choose a program that works with your budget and your schedule to take the next step towards the career you want.
In particular learning a language is the best to do through distance learning. Instead of limiting your child's education to a classroom taught by a professor whose native language is also probably English, you can give your child the chance to experience the language from a professor that lives the language and speaks it naturally and fluently. Have your student speak to other students via the monitors and voice transmitters. Allow you children to talk to people who can teach the language in a more unique and meaningful setting.
Distance learning is within everyone's budget. Some libraries offer this type of education for free or for a nominal fee. Many school are now placing distance learning into their regular curriculum. There are even extra curricular activities for your children to partake in from programs offered online and to your home computer. Depending on your schedule and budget you can have your child speaking to a Chinese speaking professor about the grammar in their language or taking singing Spanish lessons from a teacher in Venezuela.
Gunnar Bengtsson writes about Distance Education and Learning for Distance Education.