Advantages And Disadvantages Of Distance Learning

Distance learning is where a person can study without attending classes or lectures, while working or doing some other course. It is also a good alternative for housewives who are not able to enroll into courses because they have to take care of young children. Earlier, distance learning was not considered to be so valuable, however, there are many companies and employers who are appreciating the employees who are studying through distance learning while working. In distance education courses, you would be provided with study material and also would have to submit assignments on time. These assignments would be assessed by professors who would send you feedback. However, if you are planning to enroll into distance learning, you need to know about some of the distance learning pros and cons.

Advantages of Distance Learning

• Usually, while doing a course directly from college, you have to do a lot of traveling everyday from your home to the college. However, if you opt for distance learning, the main advantage would be that you will save the traveling time. In this way, you will find more time to do your other personal or professional work and then devote time to studies. Also, as you would not have to travel, you would not have to spend money on traveling expenses.
• One of the pros of distance learning is that you can study at your own convenience. If you are in a regular course, you would have to follow a fixed time to attend classes, whereas, while doing a course through distance learning, one can study as per one's convenience. There would be assignments which one would have to complete and submit. You can scheduled your study time according to your convenience.
• Another major advantage of distance learning is that you can do any course from anywhere in the world. Most online education courses allow people from different countries and states to make avail of their courses. So, even if you live in California, you can join a course offered by some institution in New York through distance learning.
• One thing about distance education is that you would not have to face major competition from fellow students. If you are a slow learner, distance learning would be perfect for you. As distance learning promotes self-paced learning, you can take your own time to learn and complete the course.
• Distance learning is good for elder people who may not feel comfortable about attending classes with people younger than them. Disabled people who cannot move around on their own without help can also complete their education through distance learning.

Disadvantages of Distance Learning
Like every good thing, even distance learning has some disadvantages that can make it seem a little inconvenient for people.

• One major disadvantage of distance learning is that it can prove to be quite expensive. You have to buy a computer and would also need an Internet connection if you want to pursue a course through distance learning.
• In distance learning, one would not get immediate feedback from professors, like in the traditional classroom setting. The other disadvantage would be that one may not get problems and queries solved immediately by professors, as in a classroom. This can act as a hindrance in one's learning.
• One of the cons of distance learning is that not all courses are available online. Theoretical subjects like history, literature, etc., where one has to read and understand can be done through distance learning, but subjects that involve practical work like science subjects, nursing, etc., cannot be done sitting at home through the Internet.
• Though distance education gives all the facilities, you may miss interacting with professors and classmates. It also does not help in enhancing one's oral communication skills, whereas in a classroom setting, one would have to get involved in group discussions and debates about various issues.
• Many students are not able to complete their courses successfully because distance learning requires self-discipline. Here, there would be no one to push you to study and ask you to complete your assignments. You have to plan your day as per your studies and make an effort to complete your tasks on time. One has to learn to study by themselves, without any supervision.

These are some of the distance learning advantages and disadvantages. Before making a decision, it is important to weigh the distance learning pros and cons. Though distance learning can be termed as a useful and convenient way to gain knowledge and to higher one's qualification, whether it would benefit you would entirely depend upon your personality and attitude.