by Scott Hayden

Created on: May 13, 2010   Last Updated: April 27, 2012

The world is more competitive than ever and getting an education is a necessity if one wants to get access to high paying jobs. However, not everyone has the time to study at a traditional college. Distance learning is a viable choice for people who can't attend a real classroom because of more important obligations. Distance learning has its downsides and students will find that success will require lots of self-discipline. Here are some of the advantages.

Learning Options are Not Limited Because of Geography

Distance learning lets you take the class in your home. Living in New York and taking classes at the University of California is by no means problematic.

Quality of Learning

Advances in technology have allowed students to view lessons via video lectures and multimedia presentations. Not one point will be missed and if something is unclear, it can be played until students fully understand it. Virtual interaction between students is only one click away, and it doesn't matter if somebody is on the other side of the world.

Reduced Costs

Distance learning will save money for students who don't want to pay for travel expenses. There's no need to pay for housing or meal plans.

Equality Between Students

A student's work will stand on merits alone. It's impossible for anyone to be treated unfairly because of ethnic origin, religious beliefs or sexual orientation.

Convenient and Flexible Learning

When you take a distance learning course, you call the shots. You learn at your own pace and decide when to do the work. The majority of people would still need to earn money while studying, so a class schedule can be tailored to suit the needs of each student.

As beneficial as distance learning can be, it won't be suitable for everyone. Here are some disadvantages.

No Access to Technology/No Ability to Use a Computer

If somebody wants to enroll in a distance learning program but doesn't have a computer, then that person will be out of luck. People who are not computer-savvy will be ill-equipped to handle online learning. 

Time Management

Distance learning isn't as easy as it appears to be. It requires students to push hard to get their work done. Chronic procrastinators won't be good candidates for distance learning.

Limited Support

When taking a distance learning course, students will be expected to collect their own resources to complete assignments. This will be great for some people, but others will struggle to get things finished.

Reputation of an Online Education

Many employers refuse to accept that distance learning qualifications are viable because some courses are not accredited.

Social Isolation

Online learners have to study by themselves. All of the traditional elements of a real college are lost.  

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