Distance learning in higher education: current trends

The article is dedicated to the current issues of using distance-learning technologies in higher education in Ukraine and the world.The major stages and reasons for the rapid growth in the world of universities providing distance learning under the influence of rapid development of information and communication technologies and the promotion of educational innovations, including MOOC (Massive Open Online Courses) and other, are discussed in detail such as electronic learning process management systems.The author examines and analyzes the main four steps that preceded and facilitated the emergence of distance learning, namely: communication through postal communications, communication via radio and television, communication via computer and media, communication through mass-based online courses.The article also looks at the current state and prospects of further development of distance education in Ukraine.The author points out, among other things, the basic normative provisions that determine the basic principles of creation, organization, and implementation of modern distance learning in Ukraine.In an article the basic principles of distance learning are formulated, the organizational and methodological conditions and the principles of its introduction into the educational process are substantiated; its main advantages and disadvantages are highlighted.This article specifically describes the importance of distance education for the implementation and implementation of the concept of Lifelong Learning.An important project of introducing distance (blended) learning at the National University of Kyiv-Mohyla Academy, in particular, the DistEdu platform.The article discusses the ways of engaging lecturers and students to work with this educational online platform.The article identifies directions for further development of distance education in Ukraine and outlines the potential of DistEdu-like projects in promoting distance education in the Ukrainian educational environment and the educational community.