3. Advantages and Disadvantages of Distance Learning

Advantages and Disadvantages of Distance Learning

Author: Nishatha Abraham Bijeesh
To do or not to do - that is the question that plagues most students who are contemplating pursuing an education through distance learning. Over the years, distance education in various forms - distance learning programs from open universities, online programs and so forth, have helped realised the educational aspirations of students who could not attend full-time and campus-based classes. 

Students often have apprehensions over opting for higher education via distance learning, as they lack clarity about the pros and cons of this mode of education. It's a good idea to understand the advantages and disadvantages of pursuing a degree through distance education before you decide if you want to go for this mode.

You must realise that distance education might not be the best choice for every student, but understanding its advantages and drawbacks can help you decide if distance learning is right for you.

Advantages of distance learning

1. You can pursue a job along with studies: A major chunk of students who actually opt for distance education are those who don't want to give up their jobs but want a higher education, too. Distance education comes as a blessing for such students. You can study on the weekends, when you're back from work or even in the middle of the night. You get to learn while you earn!

2. You can save money: For any given program, the fee of a distance education degree (online or otherwise) may be much more affordable than the fee of a regular on-campus degree. Students who are looking for economically viable options can go for a distance learning program.

3. You save time: There's no time wasted in going to and from college, no time wasted waiting for a bus or train. In a distance learning program, your classroom is right in your bedroom - the study material on your desk or the e-material on your computer. Students who don't have enough time on their hands can turn to distance education as an option and pursue it from the comfort of their homes.