Article Dashboard: Reference & Education | College

Tuesday, February 27, 2007

The Pro’s and Con’s of Online Degree Programs

The discussion whether online degree programs are at par with the traditional degree programs is endless. Here are some tips that will give you an insight into the advantages and disadvantages of the same.

Online Degree Programs - Pros
• It is more cost effective than a campus degree program. Generally online degree programs cost much less compared to normal degree courses.

• Online degree programs allow flexible timing which enable students of all ages, occupations to enroll. These degree programs are easy to fit into your personal schedule. It does not matter what time of the day you chart out to study, but it is necessary that you do find some time everyday to do so. It could be day, night or afternoon.

• Online education allows you to choose a program of your choice. There is a possibility that the closest university from your place does not have that degree course available. You do not have to fret about it any more. So here we are with one more plus.

• It is possible to communicate with people or students of various educational backgrounds; since all the communication is through internet. This enhances the knowledge levels and also allows the individual to know the potential of the chosen online degree program in the competitive world.

• Some online degree programs also have the benefits of student loans and tax exemptions just as in the case of normal college degrees.

Online Degree Programs - Cons

• The face-to-face interaction with co-students and professors is absent. Since the entire online degree is processed through the internet it is not possible to directly see the faculty or co-students. It could be a deterrent for people who learn faster in a classroom-group.

• Online degrees may not be considered as the same as traditional degrees by certain employers. If the degree is not from a recognized institution, online degree programs could prove to be quite useless and may not be appreciated at most of the work places for employment.

• The flexibility of online education lacks the basic motivation factor since the work is carried out at one’s own pace and time. This sometimes results in people leaving the course half way through.

• It is important that the individual be comfortable with the latest technologies. Online degree programs use some of the best technologies like audio/video sessions on the internet, chat programs, etc., for teaching purposes. It could be a hindrance for those who are too used to the traditional classrooms.

Despite the cons we can still say that a carefully chosen online degree program can do wonders for you. It can certainly open up career avenues and help you get a better job. Today we find a plethora of options to choose from and this is where one needs to exercise caution. Once you have decided to enroll into an online degree program, get onto your research and identify the program that suits you the best.

By: Namita Awasthi

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com


Namita is online correspondent for Education-advancement.com, one of the web's largest online education directories. She have 10 plus years experienced in demographic research.

No comments: