Distance learning is the teaching and delivery method of courses which enables students to gain education and qualifications online. It’s a system that is gaining popularity on an international stage yet there is no doubt of the stigma that remains attached to this learning format. It’s clear that while distance learning is a godsend for some, it is not suited to everyone. Here’s a breakdown of the major advantages and disadvantages which will give you a good idea of what to expect…

+ It doesn’t require an onsite presence; so it suits students with family responsibilities or geographical restrictions.

- Restricts the learning and discussion possibilities of the traditional classroom method, the lack of question and answer sessions that are an intrinsic part of lectures may be absent from this method.

+ You can study in the comfort of your own home; saving time on commuting.

- Lose interaction with students and tutors.

+ Can gain qualifications without leaving your job or hindering your employment.

- Have to possess a certain level of computer literacy and capability.

+ Just because you are studying at home does not mean you are studying alone; there are great opportunities for virtual classrooms and online interaction as technology develops; distance learning makes good use of digital advances.

- Must own a computer; access to the internet is another possible necessity.

+ Most courses will provide you with a personal tutor; with the advantages of personal advice and support.

- This tutor may not always be available immediately; you have to contact them through the college leaving little room for individual insight or queries.

+ Can approach the course at your own pace; beneficial for both slow and fast learners.

- Students must be motivated and able to commit even with the lack of discipline and structure.

+ Very accessible to those who have limited mobility; therefore making education more open and available to greater numbers of people.

- A lot of course are not accredited properly and many employers still refuse to acknowledge distance learning qualifications as viable; it is important to check with your perspective employer.

+ Since course are in recorded format and are generally quite modern they are updated and improved on a regular basis.

- Students used to the interactivity of a classroom and who are unfamiliar with computers may find it difficult to adjust to this learning format.

+ Distance learning can provide education and upskilling to smaller companies where there may not be a substantial emphasis on training.

- Stress is placed on achieving award; rather than expanding knowledge and learning on a more lateral level.

+ Assists people re-entering the work market to increase their levels of expertise to industry standards.

- May be certain hidden costs such as postage.

+ You can live and study from anywhere for anything.

- There’s little opportunity to improve oral communication skills; there is a danger that students may be well educated without being able to apply or articulate their knowledge.

+ Decreases the inhibition that some students may suffer from in a classroom.

- Unforeseen technological difficulties; when the equipment fails the course will fail with it.

The bottom line is that distance learning is extremely dependent on your individual circumstances. Agree or disagree with it; choose it, or choose to ignore it; it is certainly helping a growing number of adults return to education who in its absence may not have had the opportunity to do so; and that must certainly be the greatest advantage of all.