Pros and Cons of Distance Learning for Adults
Determining Continuing Education Suitability through Online Learning
Oct 15, 2008
Before deciding to enroll in distance education, you need to determine if you are suited for online learning. Distance education has pros and it has cons, all of which need to be considered prior to committing to an online degree program or course.
Thought needs to be given to several aspects of learning online, such as: self-directed task completion, preference for studying alone, preference for self-paced learning, and above average computer proficiency skills.
Other factors for determining your suitability for distance education, aside from the above, include a thorough review the pros and cons of distance education. The review should be honest and critical, because once a decision to enroll in a distance education course acted upon there is no turning back.
Pros of Distance Education and Online Learning
The following are some of the pros online learning offers:
- Completion of school work is based on your schedule, which makes distance education more adaptable to varying work schedules and family events.
- Ideal for those who are comfortable with computers and have above average technology skills.
- You are not hindered by slower class members, because you study alone.
- A degree can be earned quicker than enrolling in traditional education settings of attending classroom classes.
- Online courses are less disruptive on family, because you complete course work around family events.
- You are in charge of your own course and homework completion, as you meet course requirements.
- You can never be tardy or absent, because you complete work at your convenience.
- An online degree earned from a reputable institution is the same as attending classroom courses at the same institution.
- Advances in technology based interactive and virtual worlds are making it easier to complete course requirements in engineering and science programs.
- You can attend school in your pajamas or complete course work anywhere.
- Prior college work is credit typically receives more favorable acceptance from online college programs.
Cons of Distance Education and Online Learning
The following are the inevitable cons of distance education:
- Distance education typically cost more than traditional classroom settings, because convenience aspects require additional support from the college.
- Not all financial aid packages are available for online learning. Visit Distance Education Financial Aid Opportunities for additional details and requirements.
- Some academic content areas are not suited for online learning, such as math and science courses.
- Studying alone has its drawbacks, because the professor and classmates are not immediately available to ask questions or share thoughts.
- It is more difficult to learn through group work and collaborative projects, because of distance and time.
- Not all degree programs are available online, although additional degree programs are becoming available every day.
- When a burning question comes to mind in the middle of the night there is no one readily available to answer your question, you must e-mail the professor and wait for a response.
- You need to have above average computer skills to access discussion boards, virtual worlds, interactive websites, and ability to search the Internet for resources.
- You typically need a high-speed Internet access, such as DSL or cable broadband to download and access course materials. Dial-up Internet access is unsuitable, because it is too slow.
Deciding on distance education requires reflective thought as you review personal skills, learning styles (visit Distance Learning: Online Education for Adults to review learning skills and styles), desired continuing education goals, and short or long term life goals.
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