College Web Classes Pros & Cons

Educational institutions bill online college classes as "convenient," "flexible" and "perfect for your schedule." As more and more students enroll in online classes--also known as virtual classrooms or distance learning--a number of pros and cons are emerging.

Pro: Convenience

You can perform distance learning from virtually anywhere, completely removing the need for a commute--or even a wardrobe. There is no hassle with parking, no long walk to class, and no drive to the college campus.

Pro: Study Anywhere

College web classes allow students to enroll even if they are not physically located near the school. A student who lives in Texas, for example, may still enroll in and earn a degree from a college like Stanford or Duke, without the need to relocate.

Pro: Flexibility

College web classes are often asynchronous, with an instructor providing feedback or assignments in a web forum that the student may pick up hours (or even days) later. This flexibility works well for students who work unusual hours, have a busy home or social life, or have difficulty attending traditional classes.

Pro: Self-Paced Learning

Not all students learn at the same pace, and exceptionally bright students often report boredom with the slower pace of classroom deliveries. Many web-based courses compensate for this deficiency by allowing a student to take as much or as little time as needed--within reason, of course--to complete assignments.

Con: Technology Requirements

Distance learning students must have at least minimal computer and Internet skills, and may need to purchase or upgrade expensive computer equipment to successfully connect to virtual classrooms.

Con: Lack of Structure

The self-paced nature of college web classes creates a dangerous scenario, in which procrastinators may have exceptional difficulty in completing course work on time. Online classes require considerable motivation to successfully complete.

References

• Distance Learning College Guide