Pros and Cons of Distance Learning

Online education is rapidly increasingdue to the development of computer technology and infinite opportunities that it provides. It competes with traditional education on every level today.

Online education offers convenience and flexibility. Students don’t have to attend classes and they can work at their own pace withinthe schedule that they set for themselves. Students can use a variety of resources and online tools to make the learning process more efficient and engaging. In addition, students are given the opportunity to enrol for the course that appeals to them or attend online lectures and webinars.

Most online courses turn out to be cheaper as opposed to offline lessons. Tuition fee for distance learning programmes is relatively small. Furthermore, studying online allows to avoid travel expense asstudents don’t have to commute to university.

Nevertheless, e-learning has a few drawbacks. Since most distance learning courses are self-paced, it becomes tremendously difficult to stay motivated, allowing one to easily lose inspiration to study further. Hence, dropout rates for distance learning are exceptionally high.

In addition, distance learning lacks face to face interaction with teachers and fellow students. The latter is crucial because interaction enhances critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Given the main advantages of ease and cost, e-learning is now changing the way training and knowledge are being disseminated globally. One thing is certain the Internet has changed the way modern teaching and training can be delivered the next question is which students and employers will take advantage of the new opportunities it offers?