Although not a new invention, online learning can be a bit of an unknown factor to a lot of people and so we thought we would weigh up the pros and cons of online learning to give a more balanced view and insight into the topic.
If you are reading this blog, it’s safe to say that you are probably looking into the idea of doing some online learning and have been googling for advice. There is no doubt that you have found an unbelievable range and selection of online courses that you can enrol onto and start studying right away and even less doubt that the prices you have seen vary massively, making it even harder for you to know which provider to go with and if online learning is even for you.
So let’s start by listing the pros and cons of online learning and explaining why these may or may not be a good thing.
The Pros of Online Learning
- There is a huge range of online courses available
- Studying can be flexible and fit in with your other commitments
- You don’t have to travel anywhere to attend your classes
- You can gain your qualifications in shorter periods of study
- You get to experience the latest learning trends
- You’re in control of your learning experience
- Online learning fees for courses are cheaper than attending a school or training provider
The Cons of Online Learning
- You won’t have the same classroom feeling as attending a real class
- There are no set or strict deadlines for submitting work for marking
- You won’t have a teacher taking you through the course syllabus step by step
- You have to pay for the courses
- Not all online courses are actual recognised qualifications
- Online learning can be an isolating feeling
- You don’t get all the benefits of being a student
Now, you may have read through the pros and cons list above and agreed or disagreed with some of them either being a pro or a con and that’s absolutely fine! Not everyone is the same and different things appeal to different people. If you hated traditional school and classes as a kid, then the idea of independent study might be a massive plus! But then if you’re a social bee and love sharing ideas and jokes as you learn, then the thought of self learning might be a real worry.
Just like with traditional learning, online learning has many pros and many cons to consider. The key, as always, is working out whether or not it’s something that appeals and works for you. If it is, then it’s safe to say there has never been a better time to get enrolled and partaking in online learning. Even with the more traditional courses such as A-Levels and GCSEs, online learning of these courses is easy, fun and will get you the results you want or need.