Online College Education Network
(OCEN)

Pros and Cons of Distance Learning

In order to make the right decision about distance learning, you should first consider the pros and cons.

Distance learning is a great way to obtain a higher education. However, you should choose the best learning method for you based on your own goals and study habits. There are many advantages to online education as well as a few factors that could inhibit your learning.

Pros

• There is no time spent commuting to classes.
• There are no travel costs.
• You set your own hours.
• You can schedule your time around your current job and personal schedule because the hours are flexible.
• Your geographic location does not limit your learning options.
• You can benefit from distance learning if you have certain health conditions that might otherwise keep you out of school.
• You do not have to keep up with the pace of the group. This works for those who seem to always be behind or ahead of the group.
• There is less classroom competition
• More flexible deadlines
• Up to date material via Internet

Cons

• If you are the type of student that performs better with the aid of visual or verbal cues you may be at a disadvantage.
• You have to be a little more patient when getting your questions answered. You are not in a traditional setting so you have to correspond by e-mail when you want to speak to your instructor.
• Lack of face to face interaction with other students will reduce learning and study opportunities with your peers.
• You may be required to set your own deadlines which requires more motivation and self discipline than traditional classroom settings which usually have a set end-of-term date.
• More potential for miscommunication due to misinterpreted written instructions
• You may have a delay to have your questions answered by email or on a discussion board. (although some classes also offer telephone support)