topic Education

Distance Learning

In Germany, distance learning is a way to obtain education qualifications as a mature student and to earn continuing education qualifications in the general and vocational education sector, but also in the leisure sector.

Distance learning is a method in which participants and teachers are "exclusively or mostly separated and the teacher or his/her representative monitor learning success". This is done by means of exercises, control assignments or assignments to be submitted by letter or online. The advantage of distance learning is that participants can learn almost independent of an education institution and determine their own learning time.

The Law on the Protection of Participants in Distance Education - FernUSG applies to distance learning programmes and provides for comprehensive obligations in terms of information and contracts. It stipulates that the courses must be approved by the state. Self-learning procedures without individual control by a teacher - such as computer-based learning or self-learning programmes on CD-Rom - do not fall under the remit of the law.

A comprehensive overview of the method and information on distance learning programmes in Germany is provided by the "Ratgeber Fernunterricht", which interested persons can obtain from the Staatliche Zentralstelle für Fernunterricht, Peter-Welter-Platz 2, 50676 Köln or download under www.zfu.de.