Quick summary of this article
Want to earn a degree without leaving your living room? Discover the main pros and cons of distance education that you should weigh before making that critical decision:
Distance learning gifts you the freedom to study from wherever you are.
Get quality education, no matter your location or circumstances, without the barriers of commuting and the cost of campus life.
Reduce your carbon footprint by choosing a sustainable, digital alternative to traditional on-campus learning.
Distance learning requires high levels of self-motivation and discipline, but student support services can help you stay on track.
The lack of face-to-face contact can feel isolating for some. Find degree providers who have put steps in place to help you feel connected.
What is distance learning?
In today's fast-paced world, education has become more accessible than ever. Whether you're a full-time professional working from home, a stay-at-home parent or a student looking to save on the cost of moving away from home, there are many benefits of distance learning that can help you on the path towards your academic and career goals.
However, choosing whether to study online or in a physical classroom is a big decision. Some distance education courses provide a wealth of freedom to choose when and where you study, while other distance courses retain the schedule of in-person degrees, with all teaching taking place online.
In this article, we've laid out the advantages and disadvantages of all types of distance learning so you can make the right choice for you, based on your future goals.
What are the advantages of distance learning?
Accessibility
An online course can open up educational opportunities if you don't have easy access to traditional higher education or cannot attend on-campus courses. With online education, geographical limits and travel costs are no longer barriers to education. You can access your virtual classroom from wherever you are and save on transportation and accommodation expenses.
Whether you live in a remote area, have a demanding job, or have personal commitments, distance learning allows you to pursue your degree without compromising other areas of your life.
Personal progress
A key benefit of studying for an online degree over a campus-based degree is the opportunity to nurture your self-motivation and self-discipline. An online degree empowers you to take control of your learning journey and tailor it to your individual needs.
Distance education often provides instant access to your study materials and support services, including online libraries, group forums, discussion boards, and global networks, enhancing your learning experience and opportunities for personal growth.
Affordability
Distance learning is often a cost-effective option to traditional on-campus courses as you save money on expenses such as commuting, accommodation, or campus facilities. Many online degree providers will also make sure all your learning materials are available digitally, without the need to pay for extra course materials or textbooks.
At LIBF, we offer flexible payment options and funding support, making your education more affordable and accessible. Need more information to make your decision? Read our blog post on the cost of degrees in the UK.
Flexibility
While all distance learning providers allow you to study where it suits you, some even allow you to set your own study duration and schedule, with no fixed timetable and flexible scheduling opportunities. This freedom to choose not only where, but also when you study, often makes it easier to balance work, family and your education.
At LIBF, we see flexibility as one of the key benefits of distance learning. Which is why we give you the freedom to start your course on any day that suits you and study at your own pace, full or part-time, with support from study coaches to stay on track.
Career advancement
With a part-time distance learning degree, you can often continue working while pursuing higher education, allowing you to gain practical work experience alongside your studies.
By combining your development of theoretical knowledge with real-world experience, you can greatly enhance your career prospects. If you choose further study in an area you already work in, gaining a degree can help you excel in your chosen field and open up new opportunities for career advancement.
Networking opportunities
Contrary to popular belief, online degree providers often offer broad networking opportunities. Online platforms and discussion forums allow you to connect with professors, professionals, and fellow students worldwide. This can expose you to diverse perspectives and help you create valuable connections that can benefit you personally and professionally.
Networking in the online environment can lead to collaborations, mentorship opportunities, and even future jobs.
Sustainable learning
By studying online, you can reduce your carbon footprint in several ways. You'll use less energy than you would commuting to campus or living away from home – and if you choose a distance learning degree provider, the faculty won't be using energy to commute either. Not to mention the carbon emissions saved in heating and lighting campus buildings used for in-person learning.
Online resources and digital learning materials also contribute to reducing the production and waste of physical resources. By choosing distance learning, you can contribute to a more sustainable future while securing your future success.
At LIBF, no matter where you are, our digital learning platform is available to you 24/7.
Start any day, study from anywhere
Study full-time over one year, or
Study part-time over 18 months or two years.
You’ll find everything you need to know about studying an online degree with us in our digital prospectus. To receive your personalised prospectus, please fill out the form below with a valid email address.
Once you've submitted the form, keep an eye on your inbox for your prospectus to arrive via email.
Disadvantages of distance learning
Distance learning has many benefits, both to you and the environment. But we understand studying from a physical location can also have benefits. Below are some disadvantages associated with distance learning so you can make the right choice for you.
Self-motivation and discipline
Studying online requires a certain level of self-motivation, focus and discipline. Some courses will have set schedules, similar to traditional degrees, while others require you to set your own learning schedule. No matter which style you choose, there are steps you can take to develop the motivation you need to succeed.
At LIBF, our study coaches are available every step of the way, providing guidance and strategies to refine your learning process, helping you stay motivated and effectively manage your time and focus.
Lack of face-to-face interaction
While distance education provides opportunities for communication and collaboration, some students may find it challenging to engage and build connections outside of a face-to-face classroom. When researching online courses, look for degree providers who acknowledge this and provide students with ways to connect with each other and the wider community.
Technical requirements
You'll need a stable internet connection and a computer, laptop or tablet, depending on your preferred online study method and the software you'll need to use on your course.
At LIBF, we understand that not everyone has a personal computer, so we offer all our UK students a free iPad, pre-loaded with everything you'll need to access your learning materials and succeed in your course.
Embrace distance learning with LIBF
At LIBF, we understand the needs of full-time working professionals and students seeking a flexible and accessible education. Our flexible approach to distance learning allows you to start any day, anywhere you like, on your path to progress, fitting learning around your existing commitments.
Whether you dream of big goals or prefer to take small steps, we offer the support and resources to help you achieve personal growth and success. Join the LIBF community today and discover how distance learning can open doors to new opportunities.
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