The whole process of deciding whether or not you want to pursue online education is always fundamentally based on looking at the pros and cons. Upon knowing the pros and cons, you will be able to decide whether or not online learning is the right option for you. Below we highlight the good and the bad of online learning to help you determine your next steps.

Advantages of Online Learning

Online learning has become increasingly popular since the COVID-19 pandemic. Many people have swapped to this platform to ensure they are safe at home and avoid exposure to large quantities of people, which may lead to illness. It was also one of the only ways to educate the populace for a long period of time.

Due to this, there have been vast improvements in online learning. But exactly what are the advantages?

Learning Format Efficiency

Professors and faculty can introduce students to different formats to teach a specific topic through online learning. In traditional circumstances, professors often use textbooks and lectures to teach subject matter.

Due to advancements in technology and online learning, professors are able to use a wider spectrum of resources to provide their students with information relevant to their classes. 

For example, professors can utilize:

• Podcasts
• YouTube Videos
• Tutorials
• PDF documents
• PowerPoints
• Interactive websites
• Online libraries

All of these additional resources help bolster the educational content and provide students with a better understanding of the subject matter. These options are often publicly available and do not require additional funding, making them affordable for the professor and the student.

Accessibility

One major improvement online education has provided Universities as a whole is accessibility. Students who live in foreign countries, across the United States, or who are disabled are able to access the same educational content without the burden of travel. 

Previously, students would need to live on campus or commute in order to partake in their scheduled courses. This would result in extra expenses for room and board or vehicle maintenance and insurance. This factor is removed with online learning, opening the doors to more students in different economic circumstances.

Economics

Online learning is more economical than traditional in-person education. Not only does the school save on overhead costs, but students can save on tuition. As stated previously, students are not required to live on campus or commute to campus, therefore drastically reducing the cost of their education and making it more affordable and attainable.

Disadvantages of Online Learning

With every positive, there is always a negative. Online learning is a fantastic resource, but it does have its downfalls, according to some professors and students. Although they are subjective, they are important to remember when determining whether to enroll in online education.

Technical Inequality

When a student chooses to take part in online learning, they must supply their own technology to connect to the course. This can become a problem for those students with limited funding. Traditional campuses often have computer labs and libraries that can bridge the gap in technology inequity. Online courses do not currently have a method to help bridge this gap, which can result in technical difficulties.

Too Much Screen Time

Another issue that people have against online learning is the amount of screen time it requires. It is known that blue light can be hard on the eyes and cause increased sedentary activity. Because of this, some people prefer a traditional or hybrid learning experience to lessen the impact of blue light and lack of movement. 

Isolation

Some students report feeling isolated when they partake in an online course. This is often because the course does not have an element that requires video attendance. In traditional classes, there are students in person with which you can speak to compare notes. That same camaraderie seems to be lacking in newer online courses. 

Choose What Works Best For You

In the end, there are many reasons why online learning can be a positive experience. If it seems to fit your needs and goals, absolutely make the leap to attain your education. Otherwise, choose a more traditional pathway. The best option is the one that fits your needs and goals.