What are the Benefits of Distance Learning?
- Distance learning courses allow students to plan their own day and school schedule, rather than having to plan their day
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around their school schedule. “Attending” class at 2 AM is possible if that is when the student is at their most awake and active, and there is no need for that same night owl to drag their weary self out of bed for an 8 AM class that they’ll probably sleep through.
- Course materials are available online, as is library access. No more walking home from the library late at night, wondering if you should have called for a campus escort, or rushing to finish that last chapter before the library closes for the night. It’s open whenever you want it.
- Many students report that there’s a greater level of interaction with other students and with instructors in distance learning courses than in traditional courses. Since many courses are asynchronous, it gives students who speak English as a foreign language the opportunity to think about what they are writing so they can feel more comfortable interacting, and surer in their word choices. Another benefit of distance learning classes is it allows students who might not feel comfortable speaking up in a face to face course the occasion to interact with their classmates.
- Distance learning courses can allow students to update career skills, or even change careers, while maintaining their current job, raising a family, and handling all the other challenges of a busy professional. Whether part-time or full-time, distance learning gives students the flexibility to make the career decisions that are right for them.
- Another benefit of distance learning is working from home. It saves money on fuel and auto maintenance costs, as well as parking. It also saves students from having to commute during dangerous weather conditions. Such inclement weather incidents may cause brick and mortar schools to shut down, but distance learning students can continue to work from the cozy comfort of their own homes. There may be circumstances where major disasters prevent students from being able to connect to their classrooms and complete their work, but it’s less likely to be the case than a snowstorm or a thunderstorm.
- Students attending school via distance learning will improve their technical knowledge as they learn the software and tools necessary to complete their work online. Online courses may require multimedia presentations as part of the homework, as well as having to learn to properly format documents, create and share documents, backup important data, and use the online classroom tools.
- For students who are attending a brick and mortar school, but want to take classes during a break, distance learning can provide an opportunity to take classes at another university and transfer the credits to their college again the next term. This may allow them to finish their degree sooner, while still being able to enjoy the summer or other breaks at home, or work a summer job.
