Pros of Distance Learning
- For sheer convenience, it is hard to beat distance learning. Consider a typical academic day in a traditional classroom. Your alarm buzzes at seven a.m. Groggily, you pull on your clothes before trudging to class, possibly in the snow or rain. Now think of an e-learning course you are taking. You may be able to log in and see the lecture at twelve noon, if you like. No need to get fully dressed -- just sit down at your computer in pajamas, without facing the snow and rain. It doesn't get much more convenient than that.
- In addition to being convenient, distance learning can also be a real timesaver. Sometimes you commute 30 minutes or more to a traditional class. If there's inclement weather or traffic, forget about it -- those 30 minutes are easily doubled or tripled. With distance learning, the farthest you have to commute is to your phone or computer. This can add up to a savings of several hours a week, which you could use to study for the class, or just relax and have fun.
- Distance learning can be especially beneficial to those who are physically challenged. Getting in and out of a car or a tiny classroom seat can be difficult for people on crutches or in wheelchairs. With distance learning, such individuals can enjoy academic advantages from the comfort of their own home, where furniture and other items are arranged specifically to accommodate them.
- Finally, one of the best things about distance learning is that it enables students to benefit from the interaction and input of others all over the world. No longer confined to geographic space (and even time), people can come together via distance learning from dozens of countries and continents. This allows the entire class to enjoy learning about different cultures, perspectives, and gain insight from those who live and think differently than they do. If students are planning a career in the global marketplace (which may become a necessity in the coming years), distance learning offers excellent practice for this purpose.