Distance Learning for Service Members: A Parent’s Guide to Online Education
No one ever said being in the military had to be the end of your young service member’s academic journey. In fact, the military has several programs in place for service members looking to continue or further their education. For most service members on active duty, however, attending classes and dealing with the everyday troubles of civilian students is a luxury we cannot afford. This is where distance learning in the military comes in.
What is Distance Learning?
Distance learning is a learning option that allows students to earn college credits, certificates, or even full degrees without having to attend in-person classes. It is a system that makes learning flexible and accessible, perfect for service members who may be stuck on base, sent to training camps, or deployed overseas. Although not a system designed specifically for members of the military, distance learning is an essential tool in the arsenal of any service member looking to continue their academic pursuits while serving full-time.
Distance Learning and the Military?
While distance learning wasn’t developed for the military, the military remains the major driver in its development and adoption in the US. Each branch of the military partners with accredited colleges and universities to offer online learning tailored to the demands of military life.
Programs such as the Navy College Program, ArmyIgnitED, and the Community College of the Air Force are just a few military distance learning programs for service members looking to continue or start an academic pursuit while on active duty. These military-specific distance learning options allow service members to take courses and complete their education remotely without needing to attend classes in person. It makes use of various digital tools and communication platforms to deliver lessons, materials, and communication with teachers, wherever the service member may be.
Challenges of Distance Learning in the Military and How You Can Help
Even with its flexibility and accessibility, distance learning has its hurdles. Unstable internet during deployment, time zone differences, or unpredictable duty hours can all create disruptions and delays that may affect your service member’s progress. This is where your support becomes vital.
Do what you can to not only check in on your service member but also check in on their academic progress. Simply having an accountability partner has been found to help distance learning students perform better in their coursework and remain dedicated through their programs. You can be that accountability partner for your service member.
You’ll also want to offer encouragement regularly, as attending college alone is a lot of work. Doing so in the military… that’s a whole different challenge to take on. Anyone willing to brave that particular storm—that’s your service member—deserves all the encouragement they can get. And then some more. Top all that encouragement with a little bit of a celebration for every academic milestone they cross, and you'll be giving them the fuel they need to keep going. A care package or even a simple message can go a long way.
Useful Resources
ArmyIgnitED - For distance learning program for members of the US Army.
Navy College Program - For distance learning program for members of the US Navy.
Community College of the Air Force - For distance learning program for members of the US Air Force.
