Getting a
college degree is an opportunity and benefit that almost every individual looks
for. The universities have recognized the benefits of social media and other
internet tools to introduce distance learning. They can have some of their
students living overseas, accessing similar programs to the residential campus
students. They view this as a way to earn extra money for the institution
without having to employ extra labor force in the form of lecturers. The
distant learning program has caught up in many countries with the emergence of
the dot-com era. The students on the other hand tend to choose online education
for various reasons. There are students who have lived in their hometown since
they were born. They have become closely attached to their friends and family.
The thought of living away from the comfort zone they are used to, makes them
feel anxious as well as depressed.
There are
other students who have been home schooled by their parents since they were in
grade school. This leads them to become accustomed to a certain way of life
that involves minimal interaction with their fellow peers. They become overly
attached and co-dependent on their parents. The thought of leaving home and
going off to college makes them anxious. They might even develop panic attacks
from the thought of going off into the unknown environment of campus life.
Another reason is that some individuals suffer from certain disabilities that
they are embarrassed about. They fear being teased or receiving sympathy from
their fellow peers. They may have been comfortable attending special schools
catered to their needs, but they know that there are very few colleges that are
set up for special needs individuals. This leads them to choose online education
as a safe way of attending to their academic needs without having to face the
extra social challenges that come with their disabilities.
The reality is that even though the online
education deal looks exciting because of its flexibility, the students have to
ensure that they also discipline themselves based on time and motivation. There
are also other individuals who have made the decision to undertake their postgraduate
degrees. They may have postponed registering for them because of their
workplace and family obligations. The aspect of online education is exciting
for them because they can now juggle their personal, and workplace obligations
together with their academics. Before you get ahead of yourself with online
education, you should ensure that it’s something that you’re ready for.
