The popularity of distance education has recently been gaining momentum. The computer and the Internet have entered almost every home, and that is why many educational institutions and training centers are developing different types of distance learning, because it is the most accessible form of education for all segments of the population.
The effectiveness of distance education offers many opportunities for the student.
A distance learner can:
- Get a higher education,
- Study for a master’s degree,
- Get additional higher education,
- Learn a foreign language,
- Study for an MBA program (business administration),
- To attend Internet trainings,
- To improve my professional skills on professional courses,
- Receive secondary school education.
Distance Learning is suitable for those who:
- Working without the ability to regularly attend classes and lectures.
- Wants to improve qualifications and gain new knowledge, move up the career ladder.
- Constantly adds to his knowledge and broadens his horizons.
It should be said that the distance learning system suits anyone who is disciplined, able to plan, control the process of self-study, sets goals and tries to achieve them.
Like any other system, distance learning has its advantages and disadvantages.
The pros of distance learning:
- Affordable cost. The educational institution can save on rent of premises, electricity and office equipment, because students study at home on their own computers.
- Mobility. You can study being in any corner of the world, even in the places other education is not available. The only thing you need is an Internet connection.
- No psychological barriers. For those who are shy or have panic when speaking in public, distance education helps to bypass this barrier.
- No career interruption. Building a career while taking breaks to study is not easy. That’s why many working people who can’t give up their jobs or families will choose to learn this way, improving their skills remotely.
- Individual pace. A student can study when it is convenient for him, according to his needs and circumstances, planning by himself the duration and location of the classes.
- Social Equality. The opportunity to receive an education regardless of where the student lives, his/her health or financial situation.
The disadvantages of distance learning:
- Differences in the level of training and professional experience of students are not taken into account.
- There is no live contact between the teacher and the student. Individual approach with this method of training is excluded.
- A document on education obtained by this method is not considered an indicator of quality education.
- Problems with communication can interfere with a study or exam teleconference.
- Not everyone who wants to study has access to a computer and the Internet.
- There is no control over the student. The student must have strict discipline and conscientiousness to achieve quality learning.
- Students do not gain practical knowledge.
With all its disadvantages, distance learning is convenient and profitable, the main thing for the student of this form of education – qualitatively and effectively use the knowledge obtained. However, this method of education is better used when the basic education is obtained in the traditional way.