We generally think that education should take place in appointed rooms.
However, the truth is that there is another way to take courses. This idea is the ‘correspondence course.’
What Is a Correspondence Course?
A correspondence course is simply a course that you take from afar. When they were first introduced, all course materials and student/teacher correspondence were sent in the mail.
Usually, the teacher or the university would send out mail to the students. This would include a lesson and perhaps an assignment. The student would then return the completed assignment via mail.
Now, with the ability to instantly transmit information across the world in an instant, many correspondence courses are operating on the internet instead of by mail.
This method of learning is becoming more popular, and universities now offer classes via ‘correspondence’ on the internet.
But many students say they still like receiving an actual textbook in the mail. So, some schools still offer combination learning options using postal mail, email, digital documents, and the Internet.
When Did Correspondence Courses Start?
It’s hard to tell precisely when the idea came about. In 1728, the Boston Gazette first advertised classes in “Short Hand” by Caleb Phillips.
In 1840, a business in England offered a similar course. It is widely considered the first example of the modern correspondence course. People considered the course to be a success.
Eventually, the University of London began to offer entire degrees by distance learning. They called the practice the ‘External Programme,’ and it was established in 1858. It was also successful, though it ran into some issues due to the politics of the time.
Are They Worth Taking?
It depends on what you’re looking for. If you’re an 18-year-old looking for the “university experience,” then it might not be.
However, if you’re an adult simply looking to broaden your horizons, be better educated, and learn an important skill, then you will find that a correspondence course, such as those offered by Stratford Career Institute, can be a worthwhile experience.
For more than 200 years, correspondence courses have offered something that classic universities couldn’t. Namely, they offered the chance to learn at one’s own pace.
These days, with internet learning becoming more common and popular with every passing day, such courses make it possible for someone to breeze through or take their time on difficult concepts on their own schedule.
In other words, it’s a bit like having a school curriculum tailored to you. In the age of customization, that’s a great thing for any prospective student!
Interested in Taking a Correspondence Course?
Correspondence courses have a lot to offer. Look through Stratford Career Institute’s course catalog to find a class that interests you.
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