Before beginning to design a distance learning course, it is important to consider the circumstances of the learners:

• Do the learners live or work close enough to one another to be able to meet from time to time in groups?
• How much education do they have?
• What do they know about the subject of the course?
• Do they have any experience with distance learning?
• Do they seem nervous about learning on their own?
• What technology do they have access to?
• Will they be able to try out their new learning at work?

If possible, course designers should visit the learners in their locations to gain an understanding of their circumstances.

• Peter Cookson, Persistence in Distance Education

• Melody Thompson, Distance Learners in Higher Education

• Assessment Measures: Pre-Tests for Successful Distance Teaching and Learning? 

• Learner Characteristics and Instructional Design