Distance learning for adults as a resource for human capital development

The influence of distance learning for adults, including in electronic formats, on the development of human capital in Russia in modern conditions is considered. The positions of Russian and foreign scientists on the topic of the article, statistical and sociological data are presented. The author’s position is substantiated, which consists in the fact that distance learning is potentially capable of being a resource for the development of human capital, but its result cannot yet be objectively measured in practical (professional) activity. It is shown that the effectiveness of distance learning is considered today mainly from the position of minimizing time and financial costs for it, without taking into account the real result. Conclusions are made about the prospects of distance learning in electronic formats based on basic education obtained in the traditional form, about the need to develop criteria for assessing its effectiveness by industries (types of activity) in order to identify its real effectiveness.