Distance Education Versus Correspondence Education
Distance education and correspondence education differ mainly in the method of instruction. Correspondence education is a form of distance education that deals with students primarily through the mail and on a one-to-one basis, with no semblance of a classroom setting. Students in correspondence programs must complete the work assigned within a specified time frame.

Other forms of distance education can simulate the classroom experience through Internet chat-rooms, video-conferencing, and net-meetings in which the students can all join in to discuss topics and get immediate feedback from the instructor. Work for the course may require that a student be present at a given time for group or individual discussion.