The 4 Biggest Drawbacks to Distance Learning and Taking Classes Online

Taking classes online - also known as distance learning - is gaining traction as an accepted form of getting an education. There are many great and positive aspects of participating in a distance learning program as I have detailed previously. However, there are also several key drawbacks that need to be considered and weighed against the benefits. After all, distance learning is not right for everybody. This list of drawbacks should serve as a resource for you as you make your decision about whether or not to pursue taking classes online.

Limited External Motivations

When going to a traditional on-campus college program, the motivation to succeed and do your work is all around you. It even comes in the form of the setting itself - "Hey, I'm on a college campus, with buildings and libraries, I should study!" External motivations are found everywhere; attending a classroom with professors who can see you, remind you and even reprimand you in person, as well as being surrounded by other students who are also pursuing their education. While taking classes online, these external factors are not present for you to use as a crutch. In other words, if you are not a self starter, or an independently motivated person, taking classes online through a distance learning program is not for you.

No "College Experience"

Not everybody who is getting their degree online is looking for a typical "college experience". You may be a working professional or somebody who only wants to engage in academic pursuits as a hobby. But many students - especially teenagers or adults in their early 20s - want that experience. The campus setting, the fraternities and sororities, sports games and everything else that comes with enrolling in a traditional on-campus college program. Obviously when taking classes online, you will not have that experience. When choosing to get your degree online, you must understand that you will not have the typical college experience.

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