There’s an assumption that distance learning could be cheating you out of the full college experience, but this option may offer advantages that traditional in-class learning simply doesn’t. Rather than being the lesser option, there’s plenty of evidence that it may actually be a smarter choice. Here’s why.
Distance Learning May Be More Affordable
Tuition for distance learning is often less expensive than traditional in-class learning. In addition to lower tuition fees in many cases, there are also fewer costs for dining, parking, commuting, and even learning materials. Students who graduate with online degrees may graduate with less debt than traditional brick-and-mortar school students.
Distance Learning Allows Greater Flexibility
Distance learning allows greater flexibility for both scheduling and learning styles. Students who also hold down a job might have an easier time fitting in online classes around a work schedule. Additionally, students may find greater flexibility in how they learn, customizing how they approach class to their learning style.
Students often have to adapt to the way the professor prefers to teach when attending traditional classes. Online learning can provide a broader range of learning approaches.
Distance Learning Expands Your Options
When attending a traditional college, you may be limited by the campuses in your area unless you’re willing to relocate. Online learning expands your options. Suppose the best school for you is on the other side of the country. In that case, online classes may make it possible for you to attend, giving you more choices and a chance for a better education without requiring an expensive relocation to make it possible.
Distance Learning Can Prepare You for Life After College
Traditional education is meant to prepare you for life after college, but distance learning may do a better job. For one, it’s self-paced. Students are tasked with a greater level of responsibility to complete coursework and stick to a schedule.
The time-management skills these students must master can be great preparation for jobs, especially in a changing employment landscape, where working from home may be more likely in many fields. Being able to stay self-motivated and complete tasks on time can help students become better employees in the future.
While many students prefer in-class learning, distance options are becoming more popular. Some will be happy to return to brick-and-mortar buildings to learn in traditional environments, but there are plenty of people who will continue with the lower cost and flexible learning opportunities created by online courses. For many students, it’s just an ideal option for a flexible present and brighter future.
