Distance learning or online training is a good option for many students who decide to study from home . If just a few decades ago there were hardly any options for this type of training, today many universities and training institutions have a wide range of masters, postgraduate and online courses. In fact, many universities allow students to take the Bachelor’s degree courses in a single assessment format, which makes it possible for the home to become a large study room.

The comfort of our home, the lack of time or the impossibility of combining work and studies is no longer a barrier thanks to online or distance learning.

Difference between online and distance training

Both online and distance learning are equally good options for those who decide to study from home. These terms, which are similar, are sometimes confused and used interchangeably.

Although both types of training refer to non-presential teaching, online training is that which is carried out using ICT (for example, the virtual campus) . On the other hand, distance training is characterised by the fact that it does not use the new information and communication technologies, but rather the students are trained in a self-taught manner but without using an online learning platform. For example, after receiving books, they can prepare for an exam from home. Both training methods are often used together and are combined.

Benefits of studying from home

The advantages of studying from home are many. In the following lines we explain them to you.

1. No need to move

Especially in those cases where the school is far away from the place where we live, online and distance learning can be a good alternative. Choosing these options invites you to study from home and save time and transportation. Without a doubt, it is ideal for those days when the weather is not good or you don’t feel like leaving the house .

2. A wide range of studies

Nowadays, many educational institutions offer a large number of training actions, as they are aware that many students cannot attend their face-to-face classes. Those who want to study from home can take masters, postgraduate and specialization courses. The range of training is very wide.

3. Time flexibility

One of the great advantages of studying from home is the flexibility of time, because students can decide what their study schedule is based on their needs. In many cases, a simple internet connection is enough to communicate with the tutor, download the necessary material and even take tests and have access to the virtual campus 24 hours a day.

4. Usually more economical

Since online training offers more places for students, tuition is also cheaper than classroom training. If you want to make your pocketbook noticeable, this type of training is a good alternative. Also, studying from home is cheaper because you don’t have to pay for transportation.

5. Comfort

The comfort is much greater when you study from home. You can study at your own pace and without anyone bothering you. However, you have to find a quiet place and you have to have the willpower to motivate yourself and fulfill the tasks that the courses require.

Disadvantages of studying from home

Studying at home also has its drawbacks . But what are they? Here are some of them.

1. Problems with practice

Hands-on learning is really useful for students, who can test their skills and also perfect their knowledge. Studying from home may cause less experiential learning, so they may not benefit from this type of teaching .

  • If you want to know more about this type of learning, you can read our article: “The 13 types of learning: what are they?”

2. Limited social interaction

While it is true that many courses allow interaction with other students in forums, studying from home limits social interaction and can cause studying to become impersonal . On the other hand, thanks to classroom training it is possible to make new friends and work in groups.

  • One type of group learning is collaborative learning, which has its benefits. You can learn more in our article: “Collaborative learning: what is it and what are its benefits?”

3. It is necessary to be very self-disciplined

For many people, studying from home is a great option, while for others, it is not so great. Not all individuals possess a great capacity for self-discipline and self-motivation , and therefore they may have serious difficulties when it comes to deciding on this training modality.

4. Difficulties in evaluations

As with the internship, another major handicap of studying from home is taking the assessments or exams. In fact, many institutions require home-study exams at least once during the course. In this way, institutions ensure that students’ grades have met a minimum of guarantees. This is especially necessary in formal education.

5. Technological requirements

While studying at home has many advantages, this type of training requires technological elements to make the classes productive. A good internet connection, for example. In addition, it is recommended that the study space be free of distractions and as ergonomic as possible.

Looking for online training?

Now that you know the advantages of studying from home, you might look for an online course related to Psychology. Therefore, we invite you to read the following articles. You may find a course that interests you.

20 online courses on Clinical Psychology (free)

  • The 25 best free online courses in Psychology (2017)
  • Top 10 Psychology courses (classroom and online)