Free Career and Job Search Advice

himmiy · Newbie Joined: 14 May 2008 Posts: 1 Career Advice: +0/-0

Hi there,
I intend to soon join an online college but was wondering if there are any disadvantages to distance learning classes I should be aware of before I join.
Thanks a lot!!

lexa10881 · Posted: Thu May 15, 2008 3:25 am Post subject:

The only advantage I can think of is that it is very fast paced and if you fall behind it can be very difficult to catch up. I am one of those people who learn well on my own, so I have few issues, but the potential is there for problems if you don't make yourself focus on work and getting it completed.

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Dixiedarling4u2@aol.com · Newbie Joined: 15 May 2008 Posts: 1 Career Advice: +0/-0

Just setting yourself set up on a schedule will actually correct most problems. You must carve out time. It is amazing how quickly a day will pass and you didn't get the work completed that you intend to do. Stay in a positive place. Good Luck. I love it. I highly recommend it to anyone who has a desire to better their educational level. You pretty much get out of it what you put in to it. Most institutions have excellent resources for you to use for any problems that arise. Use all the resources available to you.

cv · Posted: Fri May 16, 2008 12:46 pm Post subject: Distance Learning Disadvantges:

I think you MISS the

Fun part of University
Meeting new people
Extra curricular activities (sports etc)

lexa10881 · Posted: Sat Jun 07, 2008 1:54 am Post subject:

More for you to consider:

The Disadvantages of Distance Learning

Distance learning has its advantages, especially for those who have a full schedule or a family life to work around. But just as it has its advantages, there are numreous disadvantages also. The largest disadvantage associated with distance learning has to do with the amount of complex technology involved to participate, and the associated costs. For those considering distance learning as a way to further their education, full consideration should be given to the following disadvantages:

1. Cost of complex technology, and associated pains with having to use that technology. To engage in distance learning, one must own a computer and have internet service, or have full and ready access at all times to a computer with internet service that is reliable. Other technologies may be necessary depending on the degree, including expensive software programs and equipment needed for such activities as video conferencing.

2. Advance planning to anticipate work load. Careful planning and time management is a must in order to be a successful student, and at times this may mean sacrificing activities in order to get things accomplished.

3. Hidden costs. The educational institution does not always mention the full lists of costs associated with learning, including such things as shipping charges for textbooks or having to buy software on one's own, which typically are not costs in the traditional school setting.

4. Immediate feedback does not happen in the online learning environment. In a traditional class, questions get answered immediately, and clarification is easy to obtain. In an online session, the student has to wait for the instructor to respond or review work, sometimes taking more than a day.

5. Distance learning does not offer all the courses a student may need. Distance learning is not suitable for all degrees, especially those that require hands-on training. There is no substitute for live work in some fields, such as medicine.

6. Not all employers recognise distance learning. Some employers do not recognise distance learning as adequate, and may prefer that their workers learn in a traditional setting to properly develop themselves.

7. Distance learning may improve computer skills, but oral communication skills suffer. Since students are not interacting vocally with other students and their professors, they may not develop the necessary oratory skills many employers seek.

8. Social isolation from peers. Distance learners are often on their own and seeking out help from peers is near impossible. In addition to this, the online learning environment lacks many of the traditional college activities found enjoyable and that help students network for future jobs.

Technological advances continue to improve and lessen the gap between distance learning and the traditional college setting, but there will always be differences that cannot be compensated for.

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