Distance Learning

Distance learning has quickly become one of the favored ways to earn a degree or certificate because it has made a higher education more accessible than ever before. No time in American history, in fact, has higher education been more accessible to so many people. But there are definitely both pros and cons associated with distance learning. Here is a brief primer on the pros and cons associated with distance learning.

Pro – Distance Learning Offers You the Best in Convenience

Perhaps the biggest pro associated with distance learning is how convenient it is. Distance learning affords you the opportunity to work from home. You can do your homework in your pajamas and spend more time with your family and friends. You can work on class projects at any hour from anywhere. Usually the only thing you will need is a good, stable Internet connection.

Con – No In-Person Help From the Instructor

Some people believe that perhaps the biggest con associated with distance learning is that you don't have the advantage of one-to-one communication with your instructor or classmates. That means that in most cases you will not have immediate access to your instructor if you have a question or a concern. However, you will still have email access to your instructor, which may or not be your preferred mode of communication.

Pro – Distance Learning is Usually More Affordable

In most cases, distance learning is more affordable than traditional higher education. It is also easier to enroll and register, as there is usually no formal admission process.

Con – Beware of the Diploma Mill

One of the most dangerous things about distance learning is the number of "fake" degrees currently in circulation, offered by distance learning agencies that are not accredited and are merely profit machines. Make sure to check for accreditation before enrolling.