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Disadvantages of Cyber School
by Lucy Hart, Demand Media
A student experiences the disadvantages of cyber school.
More than 6.7 million college students enrolled in online courses in fall 2011, according
to Changing Course: Ten Years of Tracking Online Education in the United States. The
staggering number of students participating in online courses has increased for 10
consecutive years. Also, the economic state has motivated people to change careers or
further their education through online degree programs. Although many people perceive
online courses as flexible and convenient, there are numerous disadvantages, as well.
Personal Interaction
Students who are taking online courses do not have the same level of personal interaction
as traditional courses. The online atmosphere can create a feeling of isolation that can
negatively affect a student's performance in the course. Few interactions with classmates
and instructors result in limited networking opportunities and poor peer relationships.
Online courses also reduce the amount of communication practices such as group
presentations, speeches or class discussions. Limited access to both verbal and non-verbal
cues can make it difficult for students to comprehend the meaning of course material and
concepts.
Limited Resources
An appealing characteristic of online classes is that they can be completed from any
location in the world. However, completing online courses while at home or traveling can
hinder a student's academic performance. The majority of schools offer learning facilities
such as libraries, labs or study rooms to enhance a student's learning experiences. Not
having access to these facilities can negatively affect a student's quality of educational
quality and performance.
Technology
The reliability of technology is steadily increasing; however, there are still chances that
your server could fail, or your Internet service could disconnect. It's important for cyber
students to persistently back-up their work in the event there is trouble with the hard
drive. Working online also proposes the risk of a failed email or a delayed assignment
submission. To minimize risks, students should study and complete assignments ahead of
time. If students do not troubleshoot technical problems in a timely manner, they can
become a hinderance to their overall academic experience.
Motivation
Cyber school requires students to take responsibility for their education. When students
work in isolation, it can be difficult for them to complete their assignments. While online
courses may be effective for highly motivated students, they be intimidating for students
who struggle with time management and internal motivation. Struggling students who
take online courses fail or withdraw more often when compared to struggling students in
traditional courses. Consequently, struggling students need higher levels of engagement
with their instructors to succeed. If struggling students do not have motivation or personal
interaction, their educational experience could be shortchanged by online courses.
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References
U.S. News Education: Online Course Enrollment Climbs for 10th Straight Year
North Carolina State University: Pros and Cons of Online Education
Montgomery College: Ten Disadvantages of Online Courses
E-Learning Companion:The Disadvantages of Online Learning
The New York Times: The Trouble With Online College
About the Author
Lucy Hart has been a writer and educator since 2007. In her spare time, Hart works as an
associate editor for Nile Publishing, and she has currently finished completing her first
manuscript. She received the Rookie Teacher of the Year award during her first year of
teaching. She holds a Dual Bachelors Degree in English and Education.