Is Adult Distance Education
Right for You?

When is adult distance education a good option? If you want to further your education and are limited in the amount of time you can devote to traditional school setting, distance learning may be perfect for you.



Adult distance education programs allow students from all over the world to earn a degree in a non-traditional setting. These programs understand that learning is a lifelong process and shouldn’t be limited by time or place.

Although distance learning has been around for a long time, it’s becoming much more wide spread with the technology boom in recent years. Classes can take place via telephone, the internet, DVDs, TV, or through E-mail.

Is distance learning right for you? Here are some pros and cons:

Pros:

1. Convenience: Classes can be tailored to fit your needs and can often be taken any time to fit into your busy schedule – day, night, weekends, lunch hours, etc.

2. Geographical barriers are eliminated: Take classes with other students from all over the world.

3. Comfort: Take classes while you’re at home in your pajamas if you want to.

4. Time Saving : Cuts down on travel time to and from school.

5. Cost Saving: Travel time and associated costs (parking, gas, car maintenance) are reduced or eliminated. The overall cost is usually less for tuition, food, childcare, and residence.

6. On-demand access: Learning can happen exactly when needed.

7. Builds teamwork: You can work with a small learning group to complete assignments.

8. Accommodates multiple learning styles: Uses a variety of delivery methods geared to different learners.

Cons:

1. Requires discipline: It may be hard for some people to participate without the face to face setting of a traditional classroom.

2. Requires knowledge of technology: This is not an issue with most people today since the internet use is now so widespread.

3. Limited choice: Not all programs of study are available through distance learning.

4. Must have computer skills: Students may not have the skills required initially to participate (this is almost always easily overcome).

If you are thinking about a 2 or 4 year degree program, it may be a good idea to take 1 or 2 online courses first to see if adult distance education is right for you. It's a flexible option, but it’s not for everyone; some people need the face to face stimulation to feel more engaged.