Distance learning to the rescue of drop-out students

June 2009 was always set to be an important month in the higher education calendar. It was this month 40 years ago that The Open University was born, and established itself as a pioneering distance learning institution that was available to anyone anywhere. However, for some June 2009 will focus more on the thousands of students who have come to be known as "Generation Crunch", a high number of graduates who have paid the most for their higher education to date and are due to enter a highly competitive recession-hit workplace.

However, moves from Gordon Brown and the Labour Government have been announced that are set to realign the focus on the positive aspects of higher education - and The Open University and other distance learning institutions in particular. According to The Guardian, the prime minister has announced a multimillion pound plan that will help students who have dropped out of university to complete their degrees via distance learning and online.

The plans follow reports last month by The Higher Education Statistics Authority showing that 7.4 percent of undergraduates drop out from university in their first year, compared to 7.1 percent the year before. At a Downing Street reception, Gordon Brown specified that a total of £20 million will be given to centres of excellence for online learning - with additional funding set aside for The Open University which will have the responsibility with working and establishing distance education and e-Learning with other institutions.

The plans also come at a time when there has been particular focus on the opportunities available through online education and blended learning. Wes Streeting, the head of The National Union of Students, argued recently that lectures had ‘had their day' and should be replaced with more virtual learning. Such arguments have frequently been heard in light of the recession causing institutions needing to accommodate a wider range of students, and a wider range of subjects.

Yet, of course investment in distance learning and online education is not only being seen to be very positive for institutions - but students are set to really see the benefits over the next few years. With the increase in the number of distance learning courses come more opportunities for individuals to study and work at the same time - being able to save money and fit study around other commitments such as family. The governments plans are also the first succession of moves, continuing next year with a further £225 million set aside to keep students from dropping out of university.

Sarah Maple is writing for Kaplan UK about degree courses.