The problem of distance learning in modern Russian education (theory and practice).

In modern information society, information technology-based learning is becoming more and more popular. Learning via the Internet, that is, distance learning, has great potential. This paper focuses on the psychological and organizational features of distance learning. The psychological characteristics of the subjects of the educational process in the course of distance learning have been determined. Distance learning is the kind of learning in which the interaction of participants in the educational process takes place in a virtual space using information and communication technologies. Risks and problems of psychological readiness of teachers and students for distance learning have been analyzed. The paper emphasizes the difference between distance learning and the traditional form of education. In the course of theoretical analysis, the author considers the distinctive features of distance learning from correspondence learning in detail. The author brings up a question whether a sharp transition from traditional to distance learning can cause a psychological crisis, emotional instability, and entail negative consequences. The components for assessing the effectiveness of distance learning have been given in the paper: material and technical support; psychological climate in the study group; structure and content of educational material; individual achievements of students; teacher qualifications. The relationship between the type of perception and the effectiveness of distance learning is explored, the forms of interaction and presentation of the training content differ. Concrete steps are proposed for holding an event to optimize the distance educational process. The positive aspects of distance learning are pointed out. In the conclusion, specific preventive measures of psychological support for participants in distance learning have been presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]