online learning

Online Learning: A Review of Its Advantages and Disadvantages

Photo by Startup Stock Photos from Pexels

Education is a fundamental part of the growth and development of every human being. What’s more, while this is a cliché, it’s no less true: Knowledge is power. And these days, you can acquire knowledge by taking advantage of online learning.

No longer must you attend lectures in person. For example, on platforms such as Imparture, you can easily educate yourself about just about any topic you might desire. You might want to learn more about marketing your business, for instance. You can do that with online learning.

As a matter of fact, you can learn new skills and train yourself for almost any field. All you have to do is register for virtual classes and tutorials over the Internet.

Tuition for online learning is generally less expensive than classes at physical colleges and training centers. Other costs will be minimal, too. For example, you’ll have no costs for travel or commuting, or for meals away from home.

You’ll be able to sign up for online courses and keep your job, too. You won’t need to take time away from the office, because you can study and learn on your own time. That’s because your class materials will be available as electronic media, and you can refer to them whenever you want.

Here, we review some of the advantages and disadvantages of online learning.

Advantages of Online Learning:

Online Learning Provides Top-Level Training

With online learning, a qualified lecturer with expertise in a specialized area teaches the content. This makes the process of learning easier, boosting your confidence and motivating you to do your best.

You Can Learn from Anywhere at Any Time

Because they’re available electronically, the courses for online learning are available whenever you are, and the schedule is flexible. What’s more, you can study from any corner of the world. All you need is a good Internet connection.

Study Content Is Continuously Updated

The best online learning platforms update their material on a regular basis. Therefore, you’ll be learning from the most up-to-date material. This factor will ensure that you stay on top of changes in our rapidly changing world.

Disadvantages of Online Learning:

Online Learning Can Lead to Isolation

One of the critical drawbacks to online learning is that it can restrict your opportunities to interact with other people in the physical world. If you’re not careful to find ways to counteract this tendency, you could end up losing ground with your social skills. Therefore, if you’re heavily engaged with your online courses, also find ways to meet up with friends and interact frequently with family members.

You Could End up with Fewer Practical Skills

Most of the concepts you’ll learn online are theoretical, not practical, in nature. For example, if you want to study science, you’ll be able to do that to a point. However, there will come a time you’ll have to get your hands dirty and learn what you need to know about the real world before you can call yourself a scientist. In other words, you’ll need to learn how to apply what you’re learning online.

Online Learning Is Not Right for Everyone

If you can manage your time well, then online learning could be just the thing for you. If not, you might be better off with the fixed schedule that learning in a real-time classroom—alongside classmates and with a professor at the front of the room—will give you.

It Could Even Affect your Health

Prolonged computer use can strain your eyes and could seriously affect your sitting posture. What’s more, a sedentary lifestyle is not good for anyone’s health. If you’re going to take advantage of online learning, take frequent breaks and be sure to get regular physical exercise.

RELATED ARTICLE: 7 WAYS EXERCISING CAN HELP YOU SUCCEED AS AN ENTREPRENEUR

Finally

Every human being is different, and we all have different proclivities and abilities. Therefore, find a learning method that matches your situation as well as your wants and needs. In other words, choose the learning style that’s best for you.