Adult Education - Why Should I Study Online?

The increasing variety and accessibility of adult education courses signify its undoubted growth in popularity. But when a student stops to consider whether taking an online degree is right for them, it can seem as easy to focus on the negative aspects of distance learning, such as lack of social interaction and the possibility of having to buy a new PC, as it is to focus on the many positive aspects. Here are some pros for distance learning that are not often discussed.

Although it is a little pessimistic to think so, in traditional university education few students believe that their tutors are judging them solely on the work they hand in. Race, gender and sexuality can all shape the perception and, at least, the initial judgement that teachers make of students, but when it comes to online education the risk of this happening is almost completely eradicated. The work that you submit is far more likely to be the only aspect of yourself you are judged for when undertaking education online.

Similarly, unlike a typical class or lecture scenario, learning online demands equal input from all students. Very often in traditional education, the students who are most assertive, outwardly eager and obviously engaged are the ones who achieve the best. With an online education program, the risk of the quieter or less assertive students being left behind is lessened because class discussions are less likely to be dominated by a loud few.

Studying online can also be seen as a great opportunity to brush up on your IT skills. Even if you choice of subject is not inherently computer related, taking an online education course can be the first steps to becoming proficient at word processing, using spreadsheets, using simple graphic based programs and learning how to get the most of the internet. And in consideration of the importance of IT skills in today's computer-orientated world, this seems a pretty handy side effect.

Online education can also be great for students who might have difficulty in explaining themselves verbally, but who can say exactly what they mean if they are given the time to put their thoughts into writing. Being part of an online virtual class affords you the time to do so.

Finally, it would seem that many prospective students underestimate exactly how much money they can save if they choose to study online and already have a computer at home. Not only will you save money from not having to commute or travel to a campus, but due to the added convenience of being able to study when you like, online learning is very easy to fit around your job.

Sarah Maple writes about home learning and online education