Night Classes Versus Distance Learning Classes

Which is Right for You?

Working and going to school can be stressful, but it’s also very common. According to National Household Education Surveys of 2001, conducted by the National Center for Education Statistics, 46 percent of surveyed adults participated in some sort of educational program between 2000 and 2001. Working adults were significantly more likely than unemployed adults to enroll in an educational program; 54 percent of employed adults were enrolled in an educational program, compared to only 25 percent of unemployed adults.  

 

In many cases, adults go back to school in order to earn a degree or certificate that will allow them to advance in their current career or pursue a better career. In order to accommodate these working students, flexible programs designed for busy adults have become very popular. There are two major types of programs: night classes and distance learning programs. Both programs have their own advantages and disadvantages. If you are a working adult and you want to go back to school, you need to decide which program is better for you.

Night or evening classes are held after regular office hours, making the classes convenient for working adults. Some colleges and universities may also offer weekend classes. Night classes provide the same quality of instruction and guidance that regular day classes would offer. Students can meet with the teacher, take advantage of campus resources, and meet other students who are experiencing similar circumstances. However, adults will usually enroll in these programs as part-time students, and as a result, programs may take a while to complete. Also, although the classes are scheduled for convenient times, most adults are tired after a full day at work; some adults will simply lack the energy that class participation requires.