Top 10 Distance Learning Disadvantages
1. Distance learning requires self-motivation. Because distance learning is flexible, you need good organization, planning and work to make it happen.
2. Distance learning does not give you direct access to your instructor. Some students fear the loss of the personal touch with an instructor, such as asking questions after class.
3. Distance learning is isolated. Although you are in a virtual classroom full of students, You may feel detached or lonely when you pursue a distance learning program
4. Distance learning requires you to have constant, reliable access to technology. For example, online courses require a computer with Internet access. For a course with material on CD or DVD, you need to have a multimedia player.
Technical glitches and dealing with an unfamiliar learning environment can cause stress and frustration.
5. Distance learning does not offer immediate feedback. In a traditional classroom setting, a student's performance can be immediately assessed through questions and informal testing. With distance learning, a student has to wait for feedback until the instructor has reviewed their work and responded to it.
6. Not all courses required to complete the degree may be offered online. (Not All Courses Are Available and Can be Learned through Distance Education)
For example, you can study a history lesson completely online but you cannot perform nursing clinicals online.
7. Some employers don’t accept online degrees. (Distance learning may not be acknowledged by a specific employer. )
8. Hidden costs: Although the cost of a distance education program is usually cheaper than a regular program, there can be hidden costs involved. you might have to incur some initial expenses like installing a computer and getting a reliable Internet connection. You may need to buy additional resources such as a printer, a web camera and so forth. Some expenses might be recurring, like maintenance and electricity costs.
9. Distance learning does not give students the opportunity to work on oral communication skills.Students in distance learning courses do not get the practice of verbal interaction with professors and other students.
10. Distance learning must be accredited. You take a serious risk when you pursue distance learning programs that are not accredited because they may be issuing fraudulent, invalid degrees. Not all distance learning is legitimate - there are many "degree mills" colleges that are not accredited.