Pros and Cons of Online Courses

The advent of the Internet and recent proliferation and availability of broadband Internet connectivity options have broadened the reach, influence and dissemination of education and knowledge. It has become possible for students, working professionals and lifelong learners to get online degrees, certificates and diplomas from a number of universities, colleges, training schools and learning centers from the comfort of a desktop or laptop--almost anywhere, anytime. But there are both pros and cons of online courses.

Pros

A number of mainstream universities, colleges, quasi-educational institutions and learning centers are offering short-term, long-term and flexi-term online programs and courses--paid as well as free. Online courses have done away with the limits and known constraints of geography. Refresher, intermediate and even advanced courses and degrees from top-line universities are being made available to students and professionals everywhere. Many of these courses, including tests and exams, can be completed without ever having to attend physical classrooms.

Effective Use of Digital Technologies

The effective use of digital technologies and communication has contributed to the vast popularity of online courses. Many of these programs are self-paced with flexible schedules to suit working professionals and students in rural and underdeveloped areas. New-age technology advancements and tools such as videos, blogs, podcasts, online bulletin boards and teacher-student online interaction forums enhance the quality of online courses. These technologies attempt to mimic the interaction and collaboration found in actual classrooms.

Cons

Real-world interaction with professors, academicians and fellow classmates is the glaring disadvantage of online courses. The chance of not being able to work and interact with professors and tutors in person or clear up doubts or issues in real time in the classroom can be frustrating at times. Inability to develop bonds and friendships with real-world classmates is another disadvantage.

Perils of Technology

Collaborating on projects and assignments for submission can be quite difficult, too, in the online classroom. Sudden technology malfunctions, Internet connectivity constraints and other technology issues can derail your schedules for particular sessions of a course.

Other Disadvantages

Occasional lack of discipline and lethargy in a home-based environment can also affect the seriousness and studious environment that is more prevalent in real-world classrooms.