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Knowing advantages and disadvantages of distance learning helps you decide if it is right for you

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Knowing advantages and disadvantages of distance learning helps you decide if it is right for you

December 22, 2005
By:  Bob Whitehead

The decision to further your education through distance learning is an important one. It's a convenient and more cost-effective way to broaden your skill set and increase your employment opportunities. Web conferencing tools have helped to make it an even better experience. Learning about the advantages and disadvantages of distance learning as an online educational resource is a good way to decide if it is right for you.

There are plenty of benefits of distance learning, especially when using web conferencing related technologies. Using text chat tools can help students lead discussions, putting the learning more in their hands. Distance learning can help develop motivation and direction in learning. Also, when lessons are delivered with PowerPoint and co-browsing of websites, students have a chance to hone their computer skills.

Communication can be more difficult when using distance learning, though. As people learn differently, text chat may not be clear enough. The convenience of the learning environment can come at the cost of developing a relationship with the instructor. The learning materials are often mass-produced in this setting as well, which also fails to account for differences in learning.

It's important to realize that distance learning is different from the learning environments many grew up in. It does involve a level of self-direction that may be difficult for some to maintain.

Web conferencing applications have really helped to improve the communication aspects of distance learning, however. Also, being able to learn from home and at your own pace and convenience is a real benefit to those who have other responsibilities.

About the Author
Bob Whitehead is a successful freelance writer and contributor to Web-Conferencing-Zone.com.  Your definitive guide to web conferencing services, online collaboration software and web meetings for business.

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