Today, online education has become more than a cheaper and less time-consuming alternative to classroom or traditional education. Online bootcamps nowadays provide students with programming and design skills that will take less time to get as opposed to the usual college setting. But if you are currently on the verge of choosing between taking an online course or a traditional one, consider checking out some of their pros and cons.
Online Education
Savings – Prices for online courses and training programs are getting cheaper. Also, there are free tutorials being offered already. In fact, there are people who managed to build their careers with free resources alone.
Flexibility and Convenience – Even when you are employed or taking care of a family at home, boosting your current knowledge and skill can still be possible. There are online courses that will only require around 10-20 hours per week. The mere option of working from home will make it a lot easier for you to fit this into your hectic schedule.
Marketable Skills and Job Focus – As opposed to traditional education, online courses will focus much more on teaching hard and specific skills that will help you get the job you want. Boot camps, for instance, are designed to prepare you for design and programming jobs. Rather than learning general critical thinking and analysis skills, you will be practicing for tasks you will be doing in the workforce.
Digital Skills – There are certain skills born online like how to use social media sites and learn content marketing. Hence, it is only natural that it will be the easiest to learn them through online education.
Keeps Skills Updated – This form of education is indeed the best way of keeping your skills updated, most especially when it comes to programming. Bear in mind that the world of online courses is rapidly adapting to the latest and new trends.
As for its cons, it has limited career options. This means that through this route, you can’t be a lawyer or doctor. You won’t also have the usual college experience. This is only recommended for those who are self-directed and motivated.
Traditional Education
Experience – This is actually what you are paying when you go to college. You will experience living in a dormitory, attend communal activities and parties, and be a part of a team or a club. In fact, the actual education is just secondary for some students.
Network – It will definitely be a huge advantage if you are in close physical proximity to people who will help you get a job. They will also help you get internships that often lead to jobs.
Recognized Degree – Though a bachelor’s degree does not guarantee you to get a job, people are at least assured that this is a valid form of education. It is a proof that you spent years studying and earned passing grades.
Facilities – There are courses requiring certain pieces of equipment and facilities. Traditional education provides such so you can gain experience in these areas.
As for its disadvantages, this route is insanely expensive. Apart from that, it doesn’t always save you from unemployment. Oftentimes, it may not give you the skills you needs.
Prior to choosing a path, determine what you really want and what you can make work.