The objective of this work is to study the Russians' attitude to distance learning based on contemporary information and communication technologies. The methodological basis of the research is the use of analytical services of the Internet for studying the Russians' online activity. As an empirical basis, the work employs two Internet studies conducted by the authors in 2018 and 2019, and it analyzes the interest of the Runet [Russian network] users in the online form of knowledge acquisition. In recent years, the growth of interest in distance learning has been noted with individual seasonal drops. There is a trend to get higher education with state-recognized degrees and formally awarded qualifications. In Russia, schoolchildren of grades 10-11 extensively use online social networks to improve the efficiency of training in mathematics. They prefer Internet communities adhering to the traditional teaching principles. A combination of educational and entertaining content attracts a larger quantity of users. The results of the research are of interest for specialists dealing with the problems of distance learning and sociology of education.

The paper analyses remote banking services in Britain as far as the visually impaired people's work with them is concerned. Most of the websites have a minimum level of accessibility for these people, especially the sites of the banks with foreign capital. Large banks with a great number of branches, on the contrary, provide full access to banking services on their websites. The paper discusses the world experience of the banking system in providing the disabled people with an opportunity to actively participate in all spheres of society by creating a barrier-free environment with the introduction of innovative products and electronic means of communication. Apart from the implementation of social protection mechanisms, the benefits obtained by the banks fully compensate for the costs incurred. The information in the paper is of practical interest for experts in sociology of disability, as well as for public organizations helping disabled people.

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