Traditional Versus Online Education

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March 1, 2009

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Introduction

For most people, if the last time they went to school was more than five years ago, there is a high probability thattheypossess a traditional degree. However, a large amount of recent graduates have started opting for online degrees for numerous reasons. If you arecontemplating going to college once you graduate high school, it is important that you weigh the pros and cons of an online degree versus a traditional degree.

Facts of online learning

There are a numerous degree programs and even single classes that are offered through online universities. Having the flexibility to select from many different programs allows potential students the ability to discover a program that will suit their needs.

Online education gives students like youconvenience and accessibility. Depending on the specific program, a student has the ability to complete assignments and possibly participate in online lectures and discussions when they feel like it. Students with disabilities or who are immobileespecially benefit from such a method.

Distance degrees can be just as precious as traditional degrees. Many times, students who study online possess the same amount of access versus traditional learners. In addition, their degree will most-likely not mention that it was earned through online learning.

Comparison

In most online programs, students are not required to take elective classes unless required by their major. This gives students the ability to study only what they require. Numerous students just want to focus on information that pertains to their major since this will help them receive their degree faster.

Emphasis: Why Online learning

Students who become involved in online degree programs are able to manage their time more efficiently, absorb the materials that are given, and finish assignments when they feel ready. This form of learning assists many people in learning faster and maintaining more information.

Value (Benefits) of online learning

Because of the fact that all classes are online, students will not have to attend physical classes. For people who work full-time, this will save them a great amount of time and make planning events in much less difficult. Additional values of online learning include (but are not limited to) finding parking spaces, leaving work prematurely to go to class, or even being away from their family. Often, lectures and course materials are sent to the student, who in turn, reads them in order to complete their work and take appropriate examinations.

Work/life balance

For parents with children, many of them decide to stay home with them until they are school-age and eventually lose touch with the workplace. Earning an online degree will certainly make it easier for them to advance their career while staying at home.

Also, many students do wish to leave their current jobs – and they really do not have to while earning a degree online. They can go to work throughout the day and study at night.

Learning style(s)

If you are a reasonably driven person who requires only a small amount of instruction and supervision, an online degree would certainly be better suited for your learning style. With online education, you have much more autonomy. You have to be self-motivated, but you are given the ability to learn using your most efficient learning styles.

Finances

Another big difference between an online degree and a traditional degree is the cost. Since campuses are limited by the amount of students they can accept, they are required charge a specific amount of tuition to make sure that all of their expenses are fulfilled. With an online degree, a school can accept more students. Tuition at online schools is typically much lower than traditional schools. Therefore, they can pass on these extra savings to you.

Also, studentsdo not need to worry about the cost of textbooks since many programs do not require them. Often times, students are given the ability to download all materials needed for their classes.

Opposing arguments

Traditional students can typically gain access to on-campus resources easier than online learners. They may also find it easier to get quicker feedback from their instructors during unofficial office hours. Traditional students may also benefit from non-academic social interaction.

Online learnersalso have to be able to invest in appropriate technology and accessories that make online learning possible. They need a computer, speakers, video accessories, and other equipment.

In addition, certain required courses may not even be offered online.

Lastly, a student who benefits the most from face-to-face learningmay find that an online learning programis more difficult.

Flexibility

Strict schedules don’t exist when taking classes online. Students are able to complete assignments when they are able to, as long as they can complete the assignments by their deadline.

Students can also decide when they want to take their tests and quizzes. They can review materials until they think they are ready to finish their work or take their tests and quizzes.

Students are also able to plan their study time aroundtheir schedule. Online classes help get rid of stress by giving the students the ability to learn when it is convenient for them.

Location

If a student loves near a great program that offers coursework in the areasthey want, they are actually very lucky. Many times, going to a great school involves an expensive transfer and/or commute. With an online program, however, the school comes to you wherever you are located.