Bernie Van Der Linde
Distance education versus face-to-face learning
Did you know that distance education has many advantages over traditional face-to-face or full-time learning? Distance learning is accessible to everyone. You can study from anywhere, any time, with a computer and a stable internet connection. You can engage with your study material, watch recorded learning sessions, and complete quizzes and assignments at a time that suits you. This means no unnecessary time off work and gives you the flexibility to enjoy a balanced work-study life without any undue compromises. Distance education allows students who stay in areas with limited educational institutions to further their knowledge without relocating. Therefore you can save on travelling costs and student accommodation costs.
Top five reasons why you should consider studying through distance education:
#1 Distance education is flexible
The most significant advantage of studying through distance education is its flexibility. Distance learning allows flexibility in planning your everyday work and family responsibilities while pursuing further studies. It also empowers you to organise your schedule (within the parameters of your assignment due dates). Flexible distance education:
- Allows you to customise your learning schedule (night or daytime learning);
- Provides opportunities for individual online consultation sessions with lecturers, allowing for a more personalised learning experience;
- Accommodates students with other challenges such as social anxiety;
#2 Work while you study
In distance learning, all the study content is available at your disposal 24/7 without distractions or disruptions. This means you can engage with the content when you have the time. Organisations value distance education because students can further their studies without impeding company working hours.
#3 Distance education opens wider network opportunities
Distance learning opens a world beyond the traditional classroom. Lecturers and students present people from all walks of life, locations and countries. Students seeking more interaction with their lecturer and fellow students can engage in virtual learning sessions. Online learning lets you meet interesting people from all over the world, some with extensive industry-related knowledge. You never know who you might meet and add to your social and professional network.
#4 Distance education studies enables you to enhance your time management skills
Distance learning prepares you to be self-directed. Planning your studies and organising your own schedule to submit assignments on or before the due date helps you practice good time-management skills. Distance learning gives you greater control to plan according to your schedule and when you prefer to work on your assignments.
#5 Distance learning enables you to enhance your technical skills
In today’s “hybrid work” environment requiring fourth industrial revolution (4IR) skills and mindsets, independent individuals who are masters of technology and can effectively work remotely are in high demand. Through state-of-the-art online learning platforms, content delivery promotes online research, video conferencing, and word processing skills.
Distance learning may be the answer if you are working and looking for a way to further your studies while climbing the career ladder.
