The pros and cons of online colleges

Choosing the right college is a significant decision, and with the rise of online colleges, students have more options than ever before. Both online and traditional colleges offer valuable pathways to higher education, but they differ significantly in their learning environments and overall student experiences. Let’s dive into the pros and cons of online colleges and hear what two of our Chatfield Scholars have to say about their choices.

What the research says

Studies comparing students’ success and satisfaction in online colleges and traditional environments have yielded mixed results. For example, an analysis by the US Department of Education found that, on average, students in online learning conditions performed better than those receiving face-to-face instruction. However, other studies have indicated lower completion rates and satisfaction levels among online students.

Online colleges: flexibility and convenience at the forefront

Flexibility and convenience are the primary drivers for online colleges for two of our Chatfield Scholars and many other students. Keeley Schurman is pursuing a pre-art therapy and history degree at Northern Kentucky University. She has taken both traditional in-person courses and online classes. Keeley notes that if you had asked her three years ago, “I would have told you that I would never do online college.”

However, she realized some benefits after trying an online class. Most notably, she was able to take accelerated programs that she couldn’t take in person because of schedule conflicts and needing to work full-time. Online classes have offered her much more flexibility.

“I have literally been on hikes before, and I will pull out my tablet, do my assignment, and then finish my hike,” said Keeley. Keeley has now transitioned to all online classes at the university.

Another of our Chatfield Scholars, Jackie Schmidt, said that online college was the clear choice because she had to work full-time while completing her degree.

Pros of Online Colleges

Online colleges can be an attractive option for students with diverse needs and circumstances.

• Flexibility and Convenience: Online colleges allow students to access course materials and participate in classes from anywhere with an internet connection. This eliminates the constraints of geographical location and fixed schedules, enabling students to learn at their own pace and on their own time. Online courses are often categorized into two formats: asynchronous and synchronous. Asynchronous classes provide flexibility, allowing students to access course materials and complete assignments on their schedule within a specified timeframe. On the other hand, synchronous courses require students to attend virtual sessions at scheduled times, providing real-time interaction with instructors and classmates from any location.
• Affordability: Although this is not always the case, online colleges often have lower tuition rates than traditional institutions. This is because they typically have lower overhead costs for maintaining physical facilities and on-campus resources. Additionally, online students can save on commuting, housing, and meal plan expenses.
• Increased Accessibility: Online learning opens educational opportunities for students who may not have access to traditional colleges due to geographical limitations, disabilities, or other personal circumstances. This inclusivity makes higher education more attainable for a broader range of learners.
• Personalized Learning: Online platforms often provide features that allow students to customize their learning experience. This can include self-paced learning modules, interactive simulations, and personalized feedback from instructors. This individualized approach can cater to diverse learning styles and preferences. Online learning can also be more inclusive for introverted students, allowing them to participate in discussions at their own pace and in a way that feels more comfortable for them.

Online colleges: less social interaction

While flexibility and convenience are significant benefits of online colleges, both Keeley and Jackie note some downsides.

Before completing her bachelor’s degree online, Jackie earned her associate degree in the classroom. Something she missed this time was “interactions with the other students, plus just sitting back and listening to the conversations around you could bring exceptional value.”

In addition to interactions with the students, Keely misses the routine of attending classes in person and the ease of using on-site amenities like the gym.

Cons of Online Colleges

• Limited Social Interaction: Online learning environments may lack the spontaneous social interactions in traditional classrooms. While online colleges often offer virtual discussion forums and other communication tools, these may not fully replicate the social dynamics of in-person learning.
• Challenges of Independent Learning: Online learning requires a high degree of self-discipline and time management skills. Without the structure of regular class schedules and in-person supervision, students must be proactive in managing their time and staying on track with their studies. Some online learners may also experience a sense of isolation due to the lack of face-to-face interaction and the independent nature of online learning. This can be particularly challenging for students who thrive in collaborative learning environments or prefer regular interaction with instructors and peers.
• Technology Dependence: Online learning relies heavily on technology, which can be a barrier for students with limited access to reliable internet or who are uncomfortable using digital learning platforms. Technical difficulties can also disrupt learning and cause frustration.
• Limited Access to Resources: While online colleges offer various digital resources, they may not provide access to the same physical resources available on traditional campuses, such as libraries, laboratories, or specialized equipment. This can be a drawback for students in certain fields that require hands-on learning or access to specific facilities.

Finding the Right Fit

The decision between online and traditional college depends on your circumstances, learning style, and career goals. These are some factors to consider when making your choice:

• Learning Style: Do you prefer a structured learning environment with face-to-face interaction, or do you thrive in a more flexible and independent setting?
• Time Commitment: How much time can you realistically dedicate to your studies? Online colleges offer greater flexibility, while traditional colleges require a more structured time commitment.
• Financial Resources: Online colleges are often more affordable, but traditional colleges may offer more financial aid options.
• Career Goals: Do your career goals require hands-on learning or access to specific resources that may be more readily available at a traditional college?
• Social Interaction: How important are social interaction and networking to your college experience? Traditional colleges offer a more vibrant social atmosphere.

To make the most informed decision, we encourage students to:

• Explore different online learning platforms and tools to determine if they align with your learning style and preferences.
• Visit the colleges’ websites to learn more about their specific programs, costs, and student demographics.
• Connect with current students and alums of both online colleges and traditional colleges to gain firsthand insights into their experiences.

As Jackie offers to students weighing their options, “Everyone has their own things to navigate. Just move forward. Don’t let any challenges prevent you from continuing your education.”

Ultimately, the best choice is the one that best aligns with your individual needs and aspirations. By carefully weighing the pros and cons of each option and conducting thorough research, you can make an informed decision that will set you on the path to academic and career success.

The Chatfield Edge can help. Learn more about our free, complete education support and what we offer to make post-secondary education and career goals possible.