Most popular wisdom argues that you need to go to a ‘proper school’ to further your education. But is this popular wisdom correct? The reality is many educators may not be moving fast enough to keep up the times and technology. There’s a certain air of resistance to change with some (not all) teachers and teaching professionals. If you’ve ever had such conversations – you might have noticed a sense of hesitation at the mention of an online degree or education. But is this warranted? Can an online learning experience match up with an on-campus one?
Firstly, those online degrees have come a long way in just a few short years. Since most traditional universities have been around for tens or even hundreds of years, they’ve obviously had a head start. While this head start has meant they normally have the best professors and resources, online alternatives are catching up and have already started making a name for themselves and their institutions. Here are a few key advantages that they already have.
One of the main advantages of an online course is its flexibility and ability to take education to the masses. Online degree providers might have to go some way to match up to the reputation of an established university – but they offer a range of solutions and options that can really help spread the education possibilities for people from diverse background and locations – people who might not have had the chance to get a degree before.
The most obvious example of this is that you can basically learn anywhere in the world. This gives unparalleled opportunities to those who might not have had them before. Online courses can also fit around a user’s schedule so that they can continue to work or look after their family.
An online degree is also cheaper, and this shouldn’t be underestimated. While the course itself might cost a reasonable amount – the other associated costs with studying on-campus can add up; from travel expenses to spending on food, drink and social activities, some student even relocated to be closer to their campus.
While many bricks-and-mortar universities and colleges have huge libraries, online alternatives are starting to catch up. With more and more resources heading online, you don’t necessarily need access to a big library when you’ve got access to the Internet!
How does an online education not match up? One of the main negatives of an online education is undoubtedly the lack of “extra-curricular” education. While this might not seem like a negative for everyone, the chance to move away from home and take that next step in life is something that can really help many young adults grow. This can’t really be replicated online – but it’s also not something that’s important to everyone.
If you have to opportunity to study on campus then it still offers a great experience – but an online education offers what’s becoming an equally great option for those who can’t.
This is a guest post written for CourseFinder by Keith Elton. Keith knows how important education can be and loves to share his knowledge and years of experience in the education industry. Check out more of his articles here.