2013 Free Education Guide

There are both advantages and disadvantages to attending a campus school. Many people feel going to a campus school is a more authentic college experience, while others feel it can be too rigid and expensive. Here are a few of the pros and cons to consider when thinking about attending a campus college or school.

Campus Advantages

Classes at a traditional campus college are held at specific times each week, which can be helpful to someone who requires structure to get things done on time.

Another advantage to attending class on campus is the opportunity for social interaction with a diverse group of students. You can meet new people, make new friends, and interact directly with professors face-to-face, all of which enhances your overall academic experience and helps develop social skills necessary to be successful in business and in life.

Campus Disadvantages

While in some cases, scheduling can be an advantage. It can also be a disadvantage if you require more flexibility.

Attending a campus school is almost always more expensive than studying online. If you don't already live in or near the city where your school is located, then you have to move there and find housing, which can be a significant expense. Additionally, you will have to pay for transportation to and from class.

Another issue with many campus programs is class capacity. Since classrooms can only hold so many students, class size limitations usually exist. If a class is full, you'll either need to take another class or take that class next semester.

The primary advantages to attending classes online are the ability to set your own schedule, study at your own pace, study from anywhere, and the fact going to school online is often cheaper than going to a campus school.

Online Advantages

While each online school is different, most programs which are held in virtual classrooms allow for students to log on and complete coursework at times that are convenient to them, which is often more convenient.

Online programs are usually more flexible than campus schools, and if a student needs more time to complete an assignment, it is much easier to make such a request. As long as you complete your coursework by the deadline, you are generally free to attend class and study when it's convenient to you.

If you don't live near a campus school, then the cost of relocating can be extensive. Tuition and books are basically all you'll have to cover when going to school online.

Online Disadvantages

When all of your classes are attended online, you don't have the opportunity to interact with other students or professors face-to-face.

Since most of your classes are self-paced, you do not have the opportunity to ask instructors questions in real time. Instead, questions are often asked via e-mail or chat, and responses can take anywhere from a few minutes to a few days to receive.

If you are a severe procrastinator, taking classes online can become a problem when you do not effectively self manage your time. This can lead to cramming and all nighters, which are not considred conducive to the educational process.

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