Distance learning can benefit many people in different ways, but it's only suitable for some. Learn the pros and cons of distance learning to decide if it's the right choice for your needs.
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Many assume that distance learning wasn't common before the pandemic. The truth is that this type of learning approach was popular even before 2020, but COVID-19 made it more visible.
The global shutdown of business and educational spaces made everyone recognize the various advantages of distance learning. However, like anything in life, distance learning also has drawbacks.
In this article, we'll discuss the pros and cons of distance learning to help you determine if it's the right choice for you or your team, so let's dive right in!
As mentioned, distance learning was widely popular before the pandemic and is continuously growing. In fact, research suggests that the eLearning market will reach over $1 trillion by 2030, which is wild.
While distance learning has many benefits, it's simply not for everyone. Let's discuss the advantages and disadvantages of distance learning, starting with the positive sides to discover if it's right for you.
Learning online can help students in many different ways. For starters, it isn't restrictive, meaning you can study whenever you want and adjust your learning schedule based on your life. You can also spend more time on hard subjects, rewatch lectures, or skip over topics you already know.
Plus, if you're feeling overwhelmed, you can always pause your courses without having to pay tuition again, which is a big relief.
Another big advantage of distance learning is that you can study from your home, café, or even while traveling—as long as you have a computer and internet connection. This is a life-changer for people with disabilities or those living in remote areas.
As for working adults, distance learning is a great option because they can study and work at the same time. Many organizations even offer corporate training, which allows them to learn new skills that they can apply in their job.
Distance learning is skyrocketing because it’s way more affordable for students than traditional classes. As for educators, they can use a free LMS to create and publish their own online courses.
With distance learning, you can save money on travel and accommodation, especially if you're exploring schools abroad that require visas.
Additionally, tuition fees aren't high, and since you can study while working, you might even get your employer to pay for your courses if they can help you improve your job performance.
With distance learning you also have a wide range of programs and courses you can choose from. Once you register, you get access to all the materials you need, whether online or through the mail.
Another great perk of distance learning is that it usually has fewer entry requirements, so it’s easier to get started. You might not need many qualifications, which is a big plus.
And if you’re worried about how employers view online degrees, there’s good news: more and more employers recognize them as credible, which is one of the main benefits of eLearning for employees.
What really matters is whether your school is accredited, and many online colleges work hard to ensure they meet those standards.
In fact, employers often appreciate the dedication it takes to complete online programs, and studies show that a large number of executives and HR leaders consider online degrees just as valid as traditional ones.
Distance learning is a great way to boost your career. You can take multiple courses at once to earn a higher degree without having to take time off work.
Many companies also use LMS platforms for corporate training and offer training programs that let you learn while you keep your job, so you can use what you learn right away.
With a part-time online degree, you gain valuable work experience alongside your studies. This mix of learning and real-world experience can really enhance your career prospects.
If you study in a field related to your job, getting a degree can help you do even better at work and open up new opportunities for advancement.
Many think online learning limits networking, but it actually offers great opportunities to connect. Through online platforms and forums, you can meet professors, professionals, and fellow students from all over the world. This helps you gain new perspectives and build important connections.
Distance learning is convenient for everyone. Teachers can help more students and continue working even during maternity leave.
Additionally, you can contact your teachers in different ways, online and offline. Sometimes, emailing a teacher for help is faster and easier than setting up an in-person meeting.
Studying online is also better for the environment. You save energy by not commuting to campus or living away from home, and teachers save energy too since they don’t have to travel. Plus, there’s less energy used for heating and lighting buildings.
Using online resources and digital materials means less waste from books and supplies. By choosing distance learning, you’re not only working on your future but also helping the planet.
Now that we've discussed the benefits of online learning, let's learn about the downsides of this learning approach.
Even with tutors to help, there won’t be a teacher pushing you to finish your work. You’ll need to be honest with yourself about whether you can stay motivated and focused on your own.
It’s easy to get distracted, so you’ll need a quiet place to study. If you have people around who encourage you, that can help too.
Some courses also offer online groups for students so that you won’t feel alone. And make sure you check how many hours you’ll need to commit to the course. Be realistic about your schedule and if you can manage it.
One downside to online learning is that you might feel isolated. Since you’re not in a classroom, you won’t have the same opportunities to meet other students and make connections. This can make some people feel alone.
However, as we learned during the pandemic, you can still stay in touch with others, even if you’re not meeting face-to-face.
Still, make sure you’re comfortable with how the course will be delivered. If it’s fully online, ask yourself if you’re okay with that style of learning. It’s a good idea to ask for sample materials so you know what to expect.
Online course providers aren’t all vetted like colleges or universities. The quality of their courses can be very different. Some may be more interested in your money than providing a good education.
Before you sign up, check the provider’s reputation and only consider options like Coursebox AI with transparent pricing. Look at how students perform and what they do after the course, especially if you use this for career growth.
Some employers still have doubts about online education. If they don’t know how good a course is, they might hesitate to hire someone with a degree they acquired online.
For-profit or non-accredited schools can also be a problem. Make sure the course you choose is accredited and that the qualification will be respected by employers or schools.
Look into what’s included in the course fee. Some courses might charge extra for training materials, exams, or certification.
Online learning depends a lot on technology, which is both good and bad. The positive side is that you can study from anywhere with internet access. You’ll probably pick up some new tech skills too, which can be useful for your career.
But tech issues can also be a hassle. Your internet might go out, or a program you need might not work. These things usually get fixed quickly, but they can still be frustrating. You’ll need a good internet connection and a device like a laptop or tablet to study online.
Some learners might face challenges with distance learning, and it’s not the right choice for everyone. But for others, it can be very useful. You just need to weigh the good and bad sides to see if it suits you.
If you’re ready to start learning in a way that works for you, take a look at reputable distance learning systems like Coursebox AI and explore some of the best distance learning courses.
Book a demo today and explore distance learning!
