Not long ago, distance education meant college professors traveled off-campus to offer credit classes through local high schools and libraries, or students commuted to campus from out of town. Today, distance education is much more. Students and professors are now at different sites, with education delivered electronically, via the Internet, videotape or CD-ROM.

Indianapolis Star reporter, Barb Berggoetz, recently reported that earning college credit through distance education is the top pick for students in Indiana, with three out of five courses Web-based. Only two other states, Maryland and Colorado, have higher numbers of distance learners. Berggoetz forecasts: "By 2002, about 2.2 million students nationwide will be enrolled in distance learning programs."

If you're wondering if e-courses are for you, you're not alone. Even experts disagree on distance education's merits. Here's what they have to say about the pros and cons:

Pros: Proponents say the ideal student for distance education is mature, self-motivated, goal oriented, responsible and a self-starter. E-courses are also ideal for those who live in remote locations and wouldn't otherwise be able to earn degrees. Proponents also note that mature and motivated students are more likely to complete the many written assignments and find online chat rooms as challenging as face-to-face debates in traditional classrooms. No one is insecure about speaking out or appearance, which creates liberating teaching and learning situations.

Cons: Those against e-courses complain that online courses cannot replace one-on-one contact with professors. Students also cited lack of community and isolation as a negative aspect of distance education. Generally speaking, those opposed agree this is not the environment for traditional students, ages 18 to 22, who are still developing new roles, communication skills and disciplined study habits. These experts also note the added expense of developing and offering distance education. Some courses cost as much as $1 million to develop, with most averaging $50,000.

So what should you do? Many experts say it depends on the reputation of the institution offering the e-courses or degrees. They also stress lifestyle as a key factor. If you're a young adult with small children and childcare expenses, distance education may be your best choice. If you're a person with a disability or someone in a remote location, you may also benefit from e-courses. Whatever your circumstances, Berggoetz suggests the importance of doing your homework, offering these guidelines:

• Ask about attrition. How many students have dropped out and how many have earned degrees?
• Check the level of interaction, particularly if you are not a self-starter.
• Choose what fits your lifestyle or personal circumstances.
• Prepare to spend more time on course work than for traditional courses.
• Be comfortable with written communication because everything is done in writing.
• Talk to other distance learners.

By considering your personal circumstances, the reputation of the institution offering e-courses and talking with other distance learners, you should be able to determine if distance education is right for you.