What are the advantages and disadvantages of studying online?

1. 61

   cherriebumposted 13 years ago

   What are the advantages and disadvantages of studying online?

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2. 69

   CarolineVABCposted 13 years ago

   Advantages studying online:
        -study in your own time.
        -no commute needed.
        -study anywhere you want (home/coffee place/library/park).
        
   Disadvantages studying online:
        -no immediate interaction with professors/classmates.
        -need to wait for a reply from your teacher for your questions.
        -many distractions which can stray a student from focusing.
   
   * Please note:
         I have taken online courses before and I've enjoyed them very much except I missed getting to know my teachers and classmates on a personal level.  What we've done in the past is to meet for a cup of coffee/latte whenever we had a special project that we needed to work as a group.  This way, we got to know each other a little bit better.  We've also exchanged e-mail addresses/phone #s and such.  We kept in contact with each other all throughout the semester.  Right now, I am taking a Hybrid (online/conventional) class which means we meet once every other week for class.  At least, this way, I can meet my teacher and classmates on a more personal basis and still have the free time that I need to study in my own time.  Hope this helps! God bless you in whatever you choose to do:-).

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3. 0

   ankigarg87posted 13 years ago

   Advantages of Online Learning :-
   Collaborative and exploratory learning environments.
   Travel cost and time savings - Learning is delivered directly to the learner..
   Vast, untapped market for training...
   Access is controllable - You can direct and monitor who receives web training - when, how many times, and in what sequence.
   Travel cost and time savings
   
   Disadvantages of Online Learning :-
   
   Time required for downloading applications..
   Web-based training has high-fixed costs...
   New technologies always require time, experience, and money in order to take full advantage of its capabilities.
   Student assessment and feedback is limited..

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4. 60

   Multiflavourposted 13 years ago

   I can answer from my own experience since I studied online for a distance learning program with the University of London for 6 years obtaining a MsC in Rural Development.
   
   Advantages
   - You can obtain your certificate and increase your skills even while you are working
   - You can earn your living while studying
   - You save on the expenses you would have (rent, travel etc) if you went to study physically on a certain place.
   - it is therefore less expensive
   - You can choose your own time for studying and therefore you can organize yourself the way you want
   - if material and course is done well, it can really benefit you
   
   Disadvantages
   - It takes a lot of discipline and organization by your side (most of people forget this) in order to succeed.
   - it is not as interactive as following lessons, meet the teacher, exchange ideas and meet students. Despite technology as improve this it is still not the same.
   - it takes longer than attending physically the course.
   
   I personally enjoyed the online studying.

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