On line Education: Advantages and Disadvantages

Most of our customers have experience with on line learning programs - both self study and those that involve a subject expert live on line.

Over the past few years, the reactions we have gotten from our clients about live on line training has been more diverse (and more emotional) than other methods of education.  Some swear they will never take a live on line class again - ever  Some say it is a better option for them.  

For purposes of this article, we'll look at three categories:

1. On line self study classes
2. On line live programs - led by a subject expert
3. In person education - led by a subject expert (in the same physical room as the student)

As with many things in your life, there are advantages and disadvantages.

Some of the advantages of on line self study can include:

• Greater control over the amount of time spent on a particular topic
• Ease of repeating content
• Time flexibility

Some disadvantages we have seen are:

• Most individuals lack the self discipline needed to "stick with it"
• The amount of time it takes is more than other learning methods

Some of the advantages of on line live programs can include:

• Eliminates travel
• Ability to participate in an environment of your choosing (e.g. your home)

Some disadvantages we have seen are:

• The amount of time a person can use this medium (less than when in person with a trainer) - e.g. 2 - 4 hours versus 4 - 8 hours
• Missed communications due to lack of face-to-face connection

Some of the advantages of working with a subject expert in person can include:

• Longer attention span of learner
• Increased emotional involvement and impact of training as a result

Some disadvantages we have seen are:

• May necessitate travel time and cost
• Limited autonomy when in another's environment

My conclusion, at this juncture, is that more use of and research on results is needed to enable one to have a better understanding of a good mix of self study, on line live, and in person live education for their personal situation.  

One key trend is combining self study and live programs to increase skill development.