educational and developmental psychology

Advantages and disadvantages of studying from home

April 24, 2024

Distance education or online training is a good option for many students who decide to study from home . If only a few decades ago there were hardly any options to carry out this type of training, nowadays, many university centers and training institutions have a large offer of master's, postgraduate and online courses. In fact, many universities allow the subjects of the Bachelor's degree in a single evaluation format, which makes it possible for the home to become a great classroom for study.

The comfort of our house, the lack of time or the impossibility of combining work with studies is no longer a barrier thanks to online or distance training.

Difference between online and distance training

Both online and distance learning are two equally good options for those who decide to study from home. These terms, which are similar, are sometimes confused and used interchangeably.

Although both types of training refer to distance education,Online training is one that is done using ICT (for example, the virtual campus) . On the other hand, distance learning is characterized by not using the new information and communication technologies, but students are trained in a self-taught way but without using an online learning platform. For example, after receiving books, they can prepare an exam from home. Both training modalities are usually used together and are combined.

Advantages of studying from home

The advantages of studying from home are many. In the following lines we explain them to you.

1. It is not necessary to move

Especially in those cases in which the school is far from the place where we live, online and distance learning can be a good alternative. Decanting for these options invites you to study from home and save time, as well as save on transportation. Without a doubt, it is ideal for the days when the weather does not accompany or you do not feel like leaving home .

2. Great offer of studies

At present, many educational institutions offer a large number of training actions, as they are aware that many students can not attend their classroom. Those people who want to study from home, can do masters, postgraduate and specialization courses. The range of training is very broad.

3. Time flexibility

One of the great advantages of studying from home is time flexibility, because students can decide what their study schedule is based on their needs. In many cases, the simple connection to the internet is enough to communicate with the tutor, download the necessary material and even perform evaluations and have access to the virtual campus 24 hours a day.

4. It is usually cheaper

Since online training offers more places for students, tuition is also cheaper than face-to-face training. If you're looking for your pocket to notice, this type of training is a good alternative. Also, studying from home is cheaper because you do not have to pay for transportation.

5. Comfort

The comfort is much greater when you study from home. You can study at your own pace and without anyone bothering you. Now, you have to look for a quiet place and you must have the willpower to self-motivate yourself and fulfill the tasks that the courses require.

Disadvantages of studying from home

Studying from home also has its drawbacks . But what are they? Then we expose them.

1. Problems to practice

Hands-on learning is really useful for students, who can test their skills and also refine their knowledge. Studying from home can cause less experiential learning, so you may not benefit from this type of teaching .

If you want to know more about this type of learning, you can read our article: "The 13 types of learning: what are they?"

2. Limited social interaction

While it is true that many courses allow interaction with other students in forums, studying from home limits social interaction and can cause the study to become impersonal . On the other hand, thanks to face-to-face training, it is possible to make new friends and work in groups.

A type of group learning is collaborative learning, which has its benefits. You can learn more in our article: "Collaborative learning: what is it and what are its benefits?"

3. It is necessary to be very self-disciplined

For many people, studying from home is a great option, however, for others, it is not so much. Not all individuals have a great capacity for self-discipline and self-motivation , so they may have serious difficulties when deciding on this training modality.

4. Difficulties in evaluations

As in the case of practices, another great handicap to study from home is to perform the evaluations or exams. In fact, many institutions require examinations from the center itself at least once during the course. In this way, institutions ensure that students' grades have met a minimum of guarantees. This, above all, is necessary in formal education.

5. Technological requirements

Although studying at home has many advantages, this type of training requires technological elements to make the classes productive. A good internet connection, for example. In addition, it is recommended that the study space be free of distractions and be as ergonomic as possible.

Are you looking for online training?

Now that you know what advantages it presents to study from home, you may look for some online course related to Psychology. Therefore, we invite you to read the following articles. Maybe you find a course that interests you.