subject: Something You Need to Know about Distance Education [print this page] Something You Need to Know about Distance Education
Distance learning has been causing disputes since it emerged. There are people who see only cons in it, while there are also those who consider the pros more important than the cons. For some people, such opinions about the online education are crucial for they influence significantly their decision. So, what are the main advantages and disadvantages of the online education and why should one pay attention to them?
Pros of distance education
Flexible schedule. This is the major reason why some people give preference to online learning. Flexible schedule makes education accessible to young mothers, working people, and those who get several diplomas at once.
No necessity to leave one's country. Students from the Far East, as well as European countries have an opportunity to graduate from the American colleges and universities staying in their countries at this.
Students with disabilities also have access to education. There are people who cannot leave their home or are not comfortable with the way they look. Distance learning makes education available to such students.
Cons of distance education
Social interaction is absent. The majority of students recollect on their student years with tenderness namely because of these social interactions and campus atmosphere. Distance learning deprives students of such memories.
No student-teacher communication. Though it is possible to contact the instructor, direct communication (face-to-face) is absent, which can hardly be beneficial for the academic progress.
Skills and technologies needed. Some of the technologies are rather costly, and not everyone can afford them. Moreover, new skills (especially the computer skills) are required to access classes, submit the assignment, etc, and there is not always enough time to develop these skills.
Therefore, now you know the main pros and cons of distance education. Carefully weigh everything before you consider distance education worth or not worth it.
Distance learning has been causing disputes since it emerged. There are people who see only cons in it, while there are also those who consider the pros more important than the cons. For some people, such opinions about the online education are crucial for they influence significantly their decision. So, what are the main advantages and disadvantages of the online education and why should one pay attention to them?
Pros of distance education
Flexible schedule. This is the major reason why some people give preference to online learning. Flexible schedule makes education accessible to young mothers, working people, and those who get several diplomas at once.
No necessity to leave one's country. Students from the Far East, as well as European countries have an opportunity to graduate from the American colleges and universities staying in their countries at this.
Students with disabilities also have access to education. There are people who cannot leave their home or are not comfortable with the way they look. Distance learning makes education available to such students.
Cons of distance education
Social interaction is absent. The majority of students recollect on their student years with tenderness namely because of these social interactions and campus atmosphere. Distance learning deprives students of such memories.
No student-teacher communication. Though it is possible to contact the instructor, direct communication (face-to-face) is absent, which can hardly be beneficial for the academic progress.
Skills and technologies needed. Some of the technologies are rather costly, and not everyone can afford them. Moreover, new skills (especially the computer skills) are required to access classes, submit the assignment, etc, and there is not always enough time to develop these skills.
Therefore, now you know the main pros and cons of distance education. Carefully weigh everything before you consider distance education worth or not worth it.
