When deciding which type of education is right for you, it is important to compare what each option offers. Some people will find online education more beneficial, while others will prefer the traditional education method. Below we compare the two side by side.

Flexibility

Online education is known to be very flexible. Students can often take courses online according to their own schedule, which is ideal for working students or students with families. Students can also often access courses 24/7/365.

Traditional education has a wide array of options for courses, but schedules are often set. If a course becomes full, a student will need to select a different time and date or wait another semester to take it. These courses operate during an academic year, and not all courses are offered during winter and summer breaks.

Location

Online education has no location requirement. Students can log in and take their course at home, during a lunch break at work, at a library, and so much more. There is no campus to commute to and no requirement to appear anywhere at a specific time.

Traditional education is often provided directly on campus at one of the school’s facilities. These courses can occasionally occur off campus at a satellite site too. 

Cost

Online education tends to be more affordable per credit. Overhead is not a factor, as a physical classroom is not required to host the course. Some of the most affordable programs have courses that start at just $300 per credit hour.

Traditional education tends to be pricier than online education. Students who choose to live on campus must pay for room, board, and meals. Students who live off campus must pay for their apartment and or commuting expenses. The cost per credit is often higher as courses require overhead to operate and a building for classes to occur in.

Pace

Online education is known for its flexible pace. Some programs allow students to participate in a self-paced course, while others will set the pace for the student. Each course and program is different, so depending on the learning style, a student can often find a program that fits their needs.

Traditional education often has one pace, and that pace is set by the professor. If a student falls behind, they are often offered tutoring and peer-to-peer assistance to help them succeed. Teachers are often on-site to help answer questions which is a benefit compared to online education.

Social Interaction

Online education is not widely known for its social interaction. In many cases, online education is a route for independent study. Some online universities have begun to conquer this by including discussion forums, group projects, and video conferencing into the curriculum to nurture social interaction.

Traditional education thrives on social interaction. Classrooms and courses are held in person, and assignments and curriculum are often discussed in a group setting. Peers can work together to compare notes, work on projects, and ask questions to further the experience and create new friendships.

Education Benefits Everyone

Whether pursuing a degree online or on a traditional campus, acquiring a degree is a great benefit. Degrees help students pursue their dream careers and advance themselves. While both online and traditional education has their advantages, there is no clear winner as the choice is subjective.