Online Learning Benefits

774 Words4 Pages
Online learning has experienced a high level of growth in the past decade. In the fall of 2010, there were more than six million students taking online courses, an increase of over half a million (Allen &Seaman, 2011). There are many reasons for the recent interest and wider availability of online education. It provides many advantages to students and their parents. However, there are still many people who are not aware of this educational option. Ease of access, diversity, and individualized learning are some of the main advantages of online learning. One of the most beneficial aspects of online education is the ease of access. All course materials are provided through an online format. Students can access their course content at any time. Many online students have full time jobs and family obligations. They may not be able to make adjustments to their busy lives to accommodate a traditional classroom schedule. Online classes give them the ability to maintain their normal activities and still complete a degree. Another benefit of online learning is the diversity. “About 86% of colleges now offer some sort of online program” (Neal, 2009). Have you ever wanted to attend a particular school but decided not to because it was too far? Online learning gives students the ability to study at their dream school and be taught by world-renowned professors, without having to relocate. This is especially helpful for students from small towns whose local colleges may not offer a wide range of courses or programs. Online learning also provides exposure to a variety of people with different ethnic, economic, and social backgrounds. There may be students from several different countries, ethnic and age groups in the same class. This gives students the opportunity to learn about different cultures in addition to their chosen program of study. Finally, students taking
Open Document