- An obvious positive associated with online learning is the fact that learners will save the expense of commuting to class. If all of your classes are online, you won't have to worry about purchasing a parking pass, paying for gas, or worrying about the wear and tear on your car from commuting to school. In addition to saving money, the lack of a commute to school will eliminate the stress associated with having to arrive to class on time.
- Students with children do not have to worry about finding a baby sitter while they are taking online courses. Parents can go to school and watch their children at home, therefore, avoiding expensive baby-sitting fees.
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Although online programs have timelines and deadlines for completing work, you will find that you can complete your work anywhere. You can work on class assignments in your favorite coffee shop or at the library. Schoolwork is no longer confined to a classroom; you can learn anywhere that you have access to a computer and an Internet connection.
Some online courses do not require you to be on the computer at a certain time. Instead, you may communicate with classmates on a bulletin board, allowing you to work anytime you choose as long as you turn in your classwork on time. - Students who are procrastinators may have trouble turning in classwork on time while taking an online course. Since you do not see your professor or classmates in person, it may be more difficult to stay motivated to complete assignments. Students must have keen organization skills and be able to work independently or they will not be successful in these courses.
- It may be difficult to understand assignments or conversations that are taking place online. Without the cues that you get from voice inflections and facial expressions, you will find that communication online can be a challenging experience. Misunderstandings are more likely to occur online when chatting with classmates or your educator.
- Many students think that online classes are easier than face-to-face classes. This is often not true. Many online classes require extra written assignments, because you will be required to discuss what you have read. Therefore, there is no hiding in the back of the room when you didn't complete your reading assignment. You have to be prepared to write about your opinions in a chat session or post them on a bulletin board.
- A computer virus or trouble sending a test in to your professor online can cost you your grade if you don't plan ahead. Technical problems are bound to happen, and they occur at the worst possible time. You must be patient and have good stress management skills when taking an online course.
