Pros and Cons - Online College Classes
Online Learning Has Advantages and Disadvantages
Aug 30, 2009
Internet access has opened doors for many with easy access from home and flexible hours. It is now possible to take classes or even earn a degree without ever stepping foot on a college or university campus.
Benefits of Online Learning
Traditional students (those who pursue education immediately following high school) tend to be technically savvy, so taking classes online is comfortable and a convenient way to earn credit hours or a degree.
Adult students, who often have families and/or jobs, benefit from being able to take classes without having to commute and also in being able to study between changing diapers or late at night.
In many cases, online classes are less expensive than classes in a traditional classroom. Overhead is eliminated, so the cost of running classes is reduced. This savings is generally passed on to the students. In cases where the tuition is not reduced, savings include eliminating the cost of commuting, meals away from home, clothing for school and other hidden costs.
The online environment exposes students to a broader range of instructors and students with opportunities to learn about other cultures and to explore new ways of looking at the world.
Challenges Associated With Online Learning
Motivation can be an issue when courses are taught online. It’s easy to put off work when the hours are not set and when professors are not on site to offer reminders about completing assignments.
Some assignments do not translate well online. For example, public speaking is not easily completed online. Even with video options, speaking to a camera is not the same as speaking in front of group.
Discussions in an online environment can be tedious. While many students put effort and thought into posts, some students simply post drivel to meet minimal posting requirements. Serious students can find this quite off-putting.
Group projects can be a nightmare regardless of the learning environment, but online group projects can easily become cumbersome in terms of coordinating. In addition, it can be easy to slide by when working in an online group, so some students end up carrying the load while others simply reap the rewards.
Feedback from instructors can be solid but can also be virtually nonexistent. In some cases, online classes are almost entirely automated. This includes the return emails in reference to questions. Questions outside the norm may require calling or visiting the campus to physically see the instructor when courses are set up on auto pilot.
Learning from home eliminates social interaction. For some students, studying in a void can be very difficult while others find that it's easier to learn without distractions.
Is Online Learning Right for You?
Online learning has benefits and liabilities. Some students do well in cyber classrooms while others do not. The best way to get a feel for online learning is to sign up for a class and see how it goes. A hobby class or one through a community college is a good way to test the waters. If online learning is a good match, it is possible to earn a four year degree or even an advanced degree.
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