distance learning

American  

[dis-tuhns lur-ning] / ˈdɪs təns ˈlɜr nɪŋ /

noun

1. education in which students receive instruction over the internet, from a video, etc., instead of physically going to a school.

---

distance learning British  

noun

1. a teaching system consisting of video, audio, and written material designed for a person to use in studying a subject at home

---

Etymology

Origin of distance learning

First recorded in 1970–75

Example Sentences

He was then enrolled in a behaviour modification programme while he completed his education through distance learning.

From BBC • Jan. 13, 2026

Enrollment Decline: Freshman enrollment dropped more than 5% from last year at American colleges and universities, the largest decline since 2020 when Covid-19 and distance learning upended higher education.

From New York Times • Nov. 17, 2024

School buildings closed, but school continued, with distance learning and hybrid modes of learning taking up much of the slack.

From Slate • Dec. 18, 2023

For many, the transition back to in-person school after distance learning was traumatic.

From Seattle Times • Dec. 2, 2023

He studied via distance learning over the TV, Tam Lin sent off the homework, it came back with excellent grades, and Celia praised Matt lavishly.

From "The House of the Scorpion" by Nancy Farmer