Online College
Education Network
(OCEN)
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Pros and Cons of Distance Learning
In order to make the right decision about distance learning, you should first consider the pros and cons.
Distance learning is a great way to obtain a higher education. However, you should choose the best learning method for you based on your own goals and study habits. There are many advantages to online education as well as a few factors that could inhibit your learning.
Pros
- There is no time spent commuting to classes.
- There are no travel costs.
- You set your own hours.
- You can schedule your time around your current job and personal schedule because the hours are flexible.
- Your geographic location does not limit your learning options.
- You can benefit from distance learning if you have certain health conditions that might otherwise keep you out of school.
- You do not have to keep up with the pace of the group. This works for those who seem to always be behind or ahead of the group.
- There is less classroom competition
- More flexible deadlines
- Up to date material via Internet
Cons
- If you are the type of student that performs better with the aid of visual or verbal cues you may be at a disadvantage.
- You have to be a little more patient when getting your questions answered. You are not in a traditional setting so you have to correspond by e-mail when you want to speak to your instructor.
- Lack of face to face interaction with other students will reduce learning and study opportunities with your peers.
- You may be required to set your own deadlines which requires more motivation and self discipline than traditional classroom settings which usually have a set end-of-term date.
- More potential for miscommunication due to misinterpreted written instructions
- You may have a delay to have your questions answered by email or on a discussion board. (although some classes also offer telephone support)