Online classes have become very popular among students around the world. This is not surprising when you consider the benefits, flexibility and affordability of digital learning. These benefits are great, but some students may not want the face-to-face interaction you get with face-to-face learning. If you are considering enrolling in virtual education, understand the pros and cons of online classes to help you make an informed decision.
Advantages of online classes
- Increasing flexibility
This is one of the most common reasons why most people join online programs. There is no need to attend classes and attend lectures at a certain time. You don’t even have to leave your bedroom. In an online learning environment, you can study when and how you want, and adjust your class schedule as often as you want. You can study from anywhere in the world.
This flexibility is great for students with other personal commitments. Some have young children to care for. Many American schools in Dubai offer this. Others can combine work and study. Regardless of the specific reason, online classes meet needs that traditional classrooms cannot. Online platforms are also offered for many associate’s, bachelor’s and master’s degree programs. A flexible schedule does not necessarily mean less workload for students attending online schools. Course materials and workload at the level of traditional schools. The only difference is that online students have more flexibility in where, when and how they study.
- Affordable
As online classes grow in popularity, so does affordability and flexibility. Studying at a regular university can be an incredible experience. But this experience comes at a high price. Most students today are forced to take huge loans to cope with the ever-increasing cost of education. When they graduate, they have thousands of dollars in debt that can take years to pay off. Students who take online classes tend to save money and not have as much debt as traditional students. Smaller costs can turn into thousands of dollars in savings by the time a student graduates. All you need is good internet access, self-discipline and a great attitude.
As an online student, you also save on textbooks, housing, food, and transportation. That means another few thousand dollars in savings per semester. Most online students do not need to take out loans to cover these low costs. If you consider all the savings, then a significant amount is obtained.
- Personal training
Personalized learning means you can learn where, when and how. For starters, as an online student, you don’t take a one-size-fits-all approach to learning. Take classes when, how and where it’s convenient for you, allowing you to set a schedule that fits your learning style. If you are a quick student, you don’t have to wait to catch the whole class. If you are a slow student, you can participate as much as you need without pressure to hurry. In addition, you will get a more hands-on experience of virtual teamwork. Many accredited online universities in UAE offers this.
The biggest advantage of one-on-one training is that it allows you to play to your strengths and minimize your weaknesses. This makes it very useful for learning. It also increases self-confidence and self-esteem.
Disadvantages of online classes
- Lack of social interaction
Social interaction is a big part of the whole college experience. This is an important time and place to make new lifelong friends and learn how to socialize. Online programs are divided into individual group programs. These programs are often important in developing students’ ability to work cooperatively with others. In addition, it makes it difficult to participate in class discussions and gain new perspectives. There are many courses such as masters in communication, master in finance etc where in you need a lof of social interaction.
- Limited selection of courses
Undergraduate and graduate studies are vastly different. As online schools and universities become more mainstream, classes are still not available in all majors. You can find many virtual courses related to business, history, economics and languages. But you may find it very difficult to find courses in chemistry, biology, engineering and other such subjects. Practical laboratory sessions are a mandatory requirement in all these courses. This is not yet possible through online learning. If you need to learn for your favorite course, this is not an option for you.
- Need a lot of your string
Additional flexibility and lack of responsibility may delay students. Some students struggle to stay motivated, study and complete homework. Self-discipline, time management, and organization are important skills for students taking online classes.
- Reputation
Online classes have come a long way since their inception, and learning takes place in a variety of media formats. However, the unfavorable reputation they acquired in the years of their birth remains. Some institutions view online applicants less favorably than traditional college graduates. This is changing, but slowly. This is perhaps the biggest disadvantage of online classes for career-seeking students.
