Online and distance learning has steadily grown in popularity among insurance professionals, but does that mean it’s a good choice for you? In order to help you answer that question, take some time to compare and contrast traditional versus online education.
Online vs. traditional education: Flexibility
One of the key components to consider when weighing the options is the amount of time you have every day to dedicate to studying. Do you have time to spend 4 full days in a classroom setting?
Online education:
A benefit to online courses is that they offer flexibility to the student. This is a great option for those who already have time commitments with family and work. Online classes will mold with your schedule—and allow you to log into your online course at a time that works best for you, as opposed to having to attend a class at a specific time.
Traditional education:
Generally speaking, this is the best option for students who have a little more freedom in their schedules. That being said, traditional students do have some flexibility in their scheduling.
Online vs. traditional education: Discipline & self-motivation
Something else to consider is your level of self-discipline. Both traditional and online education certainly require some self-discipline to succeed, but there can be differences in how learning is structured. These structural differences can have a significant effect on your ability to stay on track.
Online education:
The increased flexibility of online learning comes with a bit of a trade-off—you’ll need to be highly self-motivated. All classes require students to stay up-to-date on required reading and assignments. Some students, typically those lacking self-motivation, may struggle to stay focused when learning from the comfort of their home.
Traditional education:
When it comes to discipline and motivation, traditional education has an advantage in the eyes of many. The structured schedule of attending a class and having routine face-to-face interactions with your instructor can help keep students focused, motivated, and on task.
Online vs. traditional education: Social interaction
Do you need interaction with your peers and instructors to succeed and stay motivated? Or do you thrive in an independent study environment?
Online education:
Social interaction with instructors and other students, while not as common in online courses, still happens regularly. The biggest difference is in the form that it takes, with many online student interactions occurring via video chat or through online discussion posts.
Our courses may also offer pre-recorded videos of the same lectures given to traditional, on-campus students. If you’re a social learner who likes to ask questions and pick the brains of your instructors, these video lectures can help you earn a deeper understanding of assigned reading materials.
Traditional education:
Despite technological advances, traditional education is still likely the better option for those who thrive on face-to-face communication. Seeing and interacting with your instructors on a regular basis can be motivating for some—it’s a little easier to go the extra mile if you know your instructor is likable and invested in your education. Traditional, in-class settings may also offer more opportunities for spur-of-the-moment questioning or interesting tangents that may help a concept “click” in the minds of students.
Online vs. traditional education: The blended education model
By now, it’s probably becoming clear to you that both online and traditional education each have their perks. So is there a way to get the best of both worlds? One option that is increasing in popularity is called “blended learning.”
The decision is yours! In the case of online versus traditional education, there is no right or wrong answer. In fact, much of it boils down to personal preference and understanding how you learn best. These learning formats can all be very effective, no matter your personal learning style and situation.
Whatever decision you make, you can rest assured that we are 100% dedicated to helping you succeed!