TeamWould you like to know what are the advantages and disadvantages of online learning? Let’s find out. But first, let’s see what is online learning actually. If you are planning on studying online, here is everything you need to know about getting an online degree.
Online learning is basically taking classes using the technology – the internet or software to connect with the teachers or tutors. This type of learning can be used to get certificates, degrees, or simply to gain or improve some skills (for example, web development, a foreign language, etc.).
There are some schools that offer only online learning, but most of the institutions, even the top ones offer an option of online learning. A class can be held one-on-one with the teacher, or you can learn with other people, so you can participate in discussions.
However, both online learning and classroom learning have their advantages and disadvantages. You just need to figure out what is the best option for you.
Advantages of Online Learning
Online learning has a lot of advantages especially when it comes to those people who have jobs but still want to improve themselves. It is hard to run from your job to the classroom and then go home. It can be really tiring and eventually lead to a person giving up on learning.
1. Convenience
Online learning is very convenient because you don’t need to go anywhere, you can learn from the comfort of your own home. That means you don’t have to drive or walk, you don’t need to figure out what to eat or drink, you don’t have to dress up or even take a bath. If we put aside these, the most convenient aspect of online learning is time.
When you take online classes, you can easily fit them into your schedule even if you work long hours, have kids, or other things you need to do. You are the one who decides when you are going to take the class.
2. Affordability
Since you are learning from home using your own computer, of course, the costs of classes are reduced. It costs the institution less money to teach you, and it costs you less money to learn. It is a win-win situation. Additionally, today the books and learning materials are often available in electronic versions, so there is no need for buying printed books.
3. More possibilities
Online learning offers more possibilities for everyone. If you have a job and a tight schedule, it is hard to squeeze in the classes that you have to attend at a certain time and place. Maybe you always wanted to learn a new language but you simply couldn’t fit the classes in your schedule. Those days are gone. Now you can learn whatever you want, whenever you want.
Disadvantages of Online Learning
Since every coin has two sides, online learning has some disadvantages, as well.
1. The feeling of isolation
Working or learning from home is great, you have more time, you reduce the costs, you can learn more, etc. But, over time, some people start to miss in-person communication with others, especially if they have one-on-one classes with the teacher. But institutions are trying to overcome this problem by offering learning in a group, which involves discussions and interactions with other students.
2. Strong self-discipline is a must
It is nice when it is up to you to decide when you want to learn. This kind of freedom is great. But this also brings the danger of you becoming too relaxed and start skipping classes. You have to approach online learning in the same way you would approach classroom learning. You need to be serious and self-disciplined about it if you want to achieve the results. Just because you are learning through the camera, it doesn’t mean it’s all fun and games.
3. Technical issues
Today, we have a stable internet connection most of the time. But, also, most of the time, we will have internet connection issues when we need it the most, like when we are having an online class. This is just one side because your teacher can also experience internet connection issues. And when there are multiple students attending the class, the problem can occur more often.
However, it is not only the internet that can cause problems. You can have also audio or video problems. Any of these issues can cause interruptions and ruin the flow of the class. But, since technology is improving each day, there are fewer problems like these as time goes by.
