Is Online College Schooling Better Than Traditional College Schooling?

Online colleges may be the right option for some students.

Online Provides Flexibility

Online colleges provide learning opportunities for students unable to attend class at a physical location. Students are allowed to access their classes when it's convenient for them rather than at a preset time. Colleges can also offer more classes online since they can reach out to a larger, worldwide audience to fill the class rather than depending on only local students to enroll.

Traditional Offers More Support

Traditional colleges require students to complete assignments and tests as the semester progresses. This is different from an online course, which has a student turn everything in at the end to allow flexibility. Classes and services at a traditional college provide more structure and support for students who lack self-discipline and studying skills.

Bottom Line

Online colleges are the right answer for students who need the flexibility they provide and have the self-discipline required to keep current with coursework. Students who lack the skills to be successful in an online classroom should enroll at a traditional college where support staff is available to assist them one on one.

References

• John Hopkins University: Benefits of Online Courses
• Montgomery College: Disadvantages of Online Courses

Resources

• Illinois Online Network: Strengths of Online Learning
• Illinois Online Network: Weaknesses of Online Learning