subject: Do You Have The Discipline For Distance Learning? [print this page] Distance learning, such as attending an online training course or college, can be a great alternative to on-site campuses. For people who live in rural areas that don't have access to certain training facilities and programs, distance learning has opened a whole new level of education that may not have been possible previously.
Online training programs and colleges often offer a wider array of programs and courses than many community colleges and vocational schools, some of which may also be less expensive than on-site learning.
There are a few things an individual should know before considering distance learning before enrolling in any online program or school.
Unlike on-campus programs, distance learning will require an individual to be largely self-directed; because schools and professors may offer their lessons via video or over Internet forums, students enrolled in online courses sometimes have the convenience of reading or viewing these lessons at any time of the day. While this can be a great advantage for many, it can also present a problem for some people. It is easy to procrastinate reviewing a teacher's video lesson or assignment until it has been put off indefinitely. Online classes have to be paid for just as with any college or vocational school, so a missed lesson can result in more than just a poor grade; it's wasted money, too.
Some students find distance learning more difficult because of the increased need for computer literacy. Taking classes online means spending much more time writing on student forums, posting homework, watching lesson videos and taking part in class forum discussions. This medium is not as comfortable for some people who prefer a traditional classroom setting where the teacher is on hand to answer questions directly rather than through forums or email contact.
Despite these hurdles and drawbacks, it's best to consider the true nature of online learning ahead of time rather than later after money and time has been spent to no gainful end. Distance learning is a great tool for thousands of students, but it does take discipline and self motivation to be successful in online training.
