Distance Learning: Pros And Cons Of It

Distance learning is a good opportunity for those who want to gain new skills and knowledge. Thanks to the rapid development of technology,  computer-based sources allow institutions to offer high-quality courses in all sorts of industries.

But can this offset the lack of contact with the teachers? In this article, we will look at the pros and cons of distance learning. Institutions with distance learning provide material via audio, video or emails, as well as virtual spaces that you can share with teachers and students in real time.

What is distance learning?

The Internet is an excellent medium for distance learning. Through tablets, computers and even smartphones, students can access material related to each course or education.

In analyzing the development of this trend, platforms for Learning Management System (LSM) and distance learning courses have tripled over the past 10 years. All this allows online study to expand its offerings. Nowadays, they can offer courses for bachelor, master and PhD.

University educations obtained through distance learning are often on an equal footing with traditional alternatives, where you show up in person. And this is without at all taking into account all the different alternative courses for each specialized ability.

Clear benefits of distance learning

As with everything else in life, individuals are free to choose the path they want to achieve their goals. For those who  want to get an education despite significant obstacles such as time and place,  the benefits that come with these alternatives are very appealing:

• Flexibility:  Although many educational institutions try to maintain forms,  there will always be a percentage of students who will not have access to the education because of this.
• Anyone who has ever been late for an hour and missed out on the information needed to understand the course material knows the price of fixed schedules.

At the same time, those who are able to study full-time have to adapt to a planned schedule, which may be too slow. In both cases  , distance learning offers solutions in terms of time.

• It is perfect for people who have children. After becoming parents, many people have had to postpone their studies indefinitely.
• It’s hard to find a quiet time  when you’re surrounded by children. Distance learning allows students to take the study despite these limitations.
• Professionals who want to specialize. Everyone who chooses to use distance learning has their own reasons for doing so. They may be professionals who want to clarify their abilities within a specific area of ​​their work or also an education where they have to show up in person is not logistically possible.

Another demographic group that chooses virtual classrooms is  young people who have had to leave their studies in order to work. In these cases, distance learning provides them with an excellent alternative.

What are the disadvantages?

As we can see, the benefits are clear. But there are also some drawbacks. Is distance in itself a disadvantage? Historically, this has received this greatest criticism in relation to distance learning. Either way, geographic boundaries have been virtually obliterated due to technological developments.

In any case, not all courses or educations have followed the development of computer science. In other words , not all courses offer conferences, chat features or virtual classrooms. 

On the other hand, some of these courses require at least one lesson a month where you show up in person, which takes some of the magic of the virtual away.

Perhaps the primary disadvantage of distance learning is that it requires you to be responsible for your own study. Without a teacher in front of you to talk about any doubts you may want, you may become frustrated. This causes some students to give up completely.

In conclusion, just like with any other new business, it can save you time and money to outweigh the pros and cons. However, the growing popularity of distance learning suggests that this option is becoming more versatile and accepted.