Thanks to rapid technological development, young people these days have more educational possibilities. At this point, you can google anything you want and find thousands if not millions of materials that can answer your question. Having an Internet connection allows you to educate yourself without physically attending classes. According to James Cook University Online, over six million Americans are pursuing an online education at this point. Even Harvard University provides its students with opportunities to take courses online.
Both online and in-person classes have their pros and cons. So, think twice before applying to university. Once you learn more about these two concepts, you will be able to make an informed decision and choose a better future for yourself.
Classroom learning: advantages and disadvantages
The best thing that classroom learning can offer is the opportunity to have face-to-face interactions with professors and peers. Seeing someone every day makes it easier to form lasting friendships. Also, you will have a chance to find potential lifelong professional connections while studying on campus.
On the education level, it can also be easier for you. If you don’t understand something, you can always raise a hand and ask your question. Or even engage in the conversation with your professors after your classes are over.
Consider choosing classroom education, even if you don’t feel comfortable speaking to strangers. Going to university every day and meeting new people can help you overcome your shyness and become more confident. You will have to communicate with people all your life, so make sure you learn how to do it while still at school.
Also, moving out of your parents’ house can help you become more mature and responsible. Living on your own is a life-changing experience.
Classroom education is a traditional experience. Switching it to online learning might be a bit challenging. If you don’t know how to motivate yourself and build an effective schedule, going to university with your peers can be a better option for you.
Before you decide to apply to university, be aware of possible disadvantages. First of all, you will not always be able to shape your personal schedule the way you want. You will have to stick to the existing plan that was created by and for your professors.
Secondly, you might need to move to another city to study at the university. Needless to say, you will have to spend a significant sum of money on relocation and transportation. If you choose a school in another part of the country, be prepared to miss all the family dinners, your friends’ birthdays, weddings and other important events.
Online education: advantages and disadvantages
The best thing about studying online is that students are able to build their schedules the way they want. All the materials are available online. So everyone has access to them twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week.
If you choose online education, you will not have to worry about getting late to the class or waiting for a professor (who overslept again!). Whenever you have a free minute, you can go to the closest coffee shop, open your laptop, and complete your tasks. As you can understand, this flexibility allows you to work and study at the same time. Also, you have the chance to pass your exams anywhere you are. You can travel the world and take the courses. Classroom learning will never allow this to happen.
Another thing that you should take into consideration is the price. Some schools may cost you an arm and a leg. Let’s not forget how many young people struggle under the burden of student loans these days. If you don’t want to be one of them, consider studying online in order to save thousands of dollars.
Moreover, you can start studying online anytime at any age. According to statistics, the average online student is 33 years old. So, you can become a student again, even if you have a full-time job. A few months ago, The Learning House conducted a survey among online students above 30 years old. 44 % of them reported drastic improvements in their employment standing.
Online studying might not be for you in case you can’t organize yourself. If you lack self-discipline, you will not be able to achieve the desired results. Also, meeting new people might be an issue if you study at home. So, consider these disadvantages before you make one of the most important decisions in your life.
The bottom line
These days, you have a chance to study wherever you are. You don’t even need to be present in the classroom in order to get knowledge on the Harvard’s level. You can just log in and study online.
If you want to meet people and enjoy your student life to the fullest, choose classroom learning. However, you can also take all the courses online, especially if you are a highly organized person with your own plans and goals.