# Master’s degree health and welfare coordinator students of Savonia University of Applied Sciences see distance learning as an opportunity

> Distance learning has become more and more common in recent years, in particular because of the pandemic.

## The Rise of Distance Learning
Distance learning has become more and more common in recent years, in particular because of the pandemic. Now many master’s degree studies are carried out remotely in Finland. In Savonia University of Applied Sciences, most master’s degree students of health and social care study by distance learning, for example in the Master’s Degree Programmes of Health and Welfare Coordinator, Mental Health Promotion and Substance Abuse Prevention, and Management and Development for Social and Health Care Professionals.

Distance learning is a great way to study at an adult age. However, some may find it more difficult to learn on their own at home because they lack an in-person sense of belonging and support from their peers. Yet, encouraging students to participate online—for example, by dividing them into smaller discussion groups—has increased the sense of belonging to a study group.

## Benefits for Adult Learners
There are many students who benefit from the opportunities offered by distance learning. For many, it makes it possible to combine studying, working, and other life commitments.

– Distance learning enables me to deal with sudden events in everyday life, such as having to leave home for something but still being able to participate in the lessons via a smart device, says Jenni Tiitinen, one of the Savonia master’s degree health and welfare coordinator students who is satisfied with the opportunities provided by distance learning.

In case of falling sick, it is also easier to organize studies. Distance learning allows students to participate in lectures without getting behind. Some students have even participated in their studies during the workday. Jenni continues:

– On the other hand, it is important to remember to organize breaks and take care of your own well-being and coping because it can easily be forgotten when the opportunity to study is present all the time.

Not being tied to physical locations and being able to spend more time with family are definitely advantages of distance learning. Another advantage is that the saved time can be used to improve one’s well-being. In addition, the financial savings from travel expenses are always appreciated by students and the environment.

## Challenges and Considerations
There are also drawbacks to distance learning. A study conducted at the University of Helsinki on the effects of distance learning on the student highlights challenges with regard to exhaustion. The study found that distance learning does not feed the basic psychological needs of students and can therefore contribute to exhaustion (Salmela-Aro & Peltonen, 2020). The study also emphasized how social skills protect remote students from exhaustion.

Many master’s degree students claim that they don’t need as much social and mental support as younger students. Master’s degree students already have their networks and settled lives. Many have families and other responsibilities that pace their lives in general. Distance learning is more flexible and helpful with that "life puzzle." Master’s degree students most likely just want to complete the degree and go ahead with their careers.

Taking into account the above points, as well as our own experiences, we Savonia master’s degree health and welfare coordinator students believe that distance learning is a great way to study in adulthood because it enables us to combine school, work, and other life, but distance learning cannot be the only way to learn.

## Source
Salmela-Aro, Katariina & Peltonen, Mari 2020. University of Helsinki. Online publication. Updated 20.12.2020. Available [https://www.helsinki.fi/fi/uutiset/opetus/yliopisto-opiskelijoiden-hyvinvointi-jatkaa-laskua](https://www.helsinki.fi/fi/uutiset/opetus/yliopisto-opiskelijoiden-hyvinvointi-jatkaa-laskua). Accessed 29.3.2022.

## Blog Writers
*   Petra Blom-Toivonen
*   Heli Dahlblom
*   Eveliina Hartikainen
*   Carolina Mikkonen
    *   Students of Welfare and Health Coordinator Master’s Degree Programme at Savonia UAS
*   Sanna Savela, Senior Lecturer in Languages, Savonia UAS
*   Marja-Liisa Rissanen, Principal Lecturer, Master School, Savonia UAS