Online training has been gaining ground in the last decade in a considerable way , since for many individuals distance learning is useful due to its multiple advantages. Different private centres, public institutions or universities have joined this type of training, aware that this teaching model awakens great interest among students and provides added value with respect to traditional training.

The lack of time to attend face-to-face classes or the impossibility of combining studies with working hours can be a barrier to continuing education. However, distance learning can help to overcome this “handicap”, making a new reality possible for many students .

In today’s article, we will review the advantages and disadvantages of this training model.

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Advantages and disadvantages of distance education

But, what are the pros and cons of distance learning? Why should we choose or not this training model over traditional teaching? We explain it below.

Positive points of online teaching

Let’s start with the strengths of online education .

1. Time flexibility

Although some online students must connect to their computers or tablets at specific times to communicate with the tutor, take assessments or view video conferences, this is not common.

Online students can usually view the course material 24 hours a day . Online training offers an excellent opportunity to study at any time of day, even at unconventional times (e.g. early morning).

2. Easy access without displacement

And the fact is that, without a doubt, one of the options for which to opt for online training has to do with not having to attend study centres and being able to do the work from home. Therefore, it means savings in transport and, moreover, it is ideal for rainy and cold days when you do not want to leave your home.

3. Wide range of studies

Online training is the order of the day. Companies use it to train their employees, and many postgraduate students sign up for specialized courses, postgraduate degrees and even official masters. This type of training is ideal for those who are working and want to continue acquiring knowledge in their specialty .

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4. Permanent updating of contents

Online training allows you to update the content at any time of day , as well as to submit jobs at any time. It is an ideal tool for both students and teachers.

5. Self-direction and real-time contact

Therefore, is a tool that enables fluid communication and helps to be connected to the teaching staff immediately. In addition, students can decide what they study and how they study, as the material is hung up for review according to each person’s needs.

6. Usually more economical

Since online training enables the enrolment of more students and does not involve expenditure on facilities, it is usually cheaper than face-to-face training . If you opt for online training, your pocket will notice this for the better.

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7. Is independent of location

Perhaps the most important advantage of online training is that makes it easy to access the studio from anywhere in the world . For example, an Argentine student can study a postgraduate course at the University of Barcelona. Something unthinkable only a couple of decades ago.

Disadvantages of online training

Like everything in this life, online education also has less positive things . What are they?

1. Requires self-motivation and self-discipline

Online training has many advantages as we have seen, but it requires a high degree of motivation and self-discipline. It may be more difficult for some individuals to stay on top of the course in this mode. Others, however, enjoy this mode of study without problems.

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2. May be impersonal (limited social interaction)

Not attending class can be a great advantage in many cases, but online training can become impersonal and can be a limitation for social interaction. On the other hand, traditional training makes it possible to interact with teachers and classmates in a face-to-face way, which is beneficial in many cases.

3. Technical failures

Advances in technology have helped many students connect from anywhere: the cafeteria, the library, or the train. But sometimes, technological means can fail making it difficult to perform tasks . For example, when you run out of a computer because it has broken down.

4. Technological requirements

Therefore, online training requires a computer, an internet connection and, in many cases, up-to-date software . Unfortunately, not all students have these requirements, which can be a problem for their educational experience. Furthermore, this can be an additional financial cost in some situations.

5. Difficulty to perform practices

Online training can be a problem for practical tasks , especially those that require group work. For example, if a student studies a sports training course, he or she may not be able to agree to put their knowledge into practice.

6. Difficulties in evaluations

Online training can make it difficult for teachers to monitor evaluations , so many choose to make periodic evaluations in person. This is especially important for formal education.

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7. Social Stigma

Although online teaching has gained credibility in recent years, some people tend to underestimate this training model .

There is a mistaken belief that online education is easier than face-to-face education, and some employers may not take these types of courses or diplomas seriously. However, an increasing number of educational institutions (including prestigious universities) are providing quality online education.