While the ability to attend online classes is not new, we can notice a huge increase in the popularity of online studies in recent years. One of the factors that are influencing such an increase is the pandemic. Besides that, many people prefer an option where they can watch the sessions online instead of being obligated to sit in the classes.
That is perfect when you want to work and still have a chance to get a degree. A lot of people think that this is the future of the educational system. On the other side, many experts consider this method questionable because of its effectiveness when compared to traditional studies.
This option is especially popular when it comes to social sciences, psychology, legal studies, and more. Also, we have to mention computer science, web design, and other areas that include modern technology. If you are interested in the legal studies online program, check out Abraham Lincoln University.
According to barristerbooks.com the most important thing you need to know about getting a law degree online is that you cannot expect to become a lawyer or judge since it will require practice. On the other side, it can be a great solution if you need a degree for working as a service manager, human resources, compliance, and more. Here are the main benefits and potential downsides of getting an online degree.
Pros
1. Flexibility
This is the main reason why this option is getting so popular in recent years. As we all know, getting a degree in any area requires you to go to college and stay there for at least four years. On the other side, an online degree is excellent if you already have a job, but you need a specialization so you can get a better position. For example, advancing from a position of the store manager to get a job in the office or executive board. Not to mention the fact that you will have time to work every day since online studies require less time.
2. Lower Price
The expenses related to attending the University and getting a degree are especially an issue in the United States, which is known as a country with the most expensive colleges. Besides the price of the school, there are additional expenses related to moving to another place. You can work full-time or part-time, and still, have enough time to watch online sessions and learn for the following exams when you are attending an online university.
3. Lots of Options
Universities are noticing that students now have different requirements and that there is no need any more for keeping them at one place where they must visit all classes in public. With the integration of modern technologies, the system can be equally efficient when they are watching live sessions of classes. There is also a system where a student can ask questions as well.
The high efficiency and great flexibility can provide people to expand and improve their education even more. For example, a student can attend two different online colleges, like business and web design. Also, it is a great option for older people who already have careers to develop their skills and improve their position at work.
4. Efficiency
This topic is highly questionable, and we can see that there is a debate over the functionality and effectiveness of online classes when compared to the traditional method. You will hear a lot of people saying that the traditional system will always be a better one. However, with an implementation of modern technology where the professor can live stream the classes and communicate with students in the same way as when they are sitting in the class, the difference between these models is not so drastic.
Cons
5. Lack of Practical Experience
While many people think that legal studies are all about reading a lot of books and learning a lot of details related to the legal system in the US, the lack of practice can be an issue. Even if you learn a lot about the legality of some processes, only with practice you can know how to implement the different regulations in reality. That is the main reason to avoid online studies if you want to become a lawyer, where getting proper practice is essential.
6. Potential Issues With Accreditations
This is a common issue in the whole world. Many organizations are trying to take it as an advantage and share an online program where they are promising expanded knowledge and a chance to get a better job. However, the issue is that many of these schools don’t have proper accreditations, which can be an issue when you need a degree for certain jobs. In that matter, be sure to check if the online college is accredited before paying the first tuition.
7. Don’ Forget the Soft Skills
One of the main advantages of going to a traditional college is that you can work on your communication and improve various skills besides the main area you have chosen. For instance, learning about the legal system in the US can be quite difficult since it is very complex. However, even if you manage to learn all these things and get a decent degree, the issue can be a lack of soft skills, such as teamwork, communication, flexibility, leading, and more.
The Bottom Line
As you can see, there are many benefits of getting an online law degree, along with some potential downsides. It is individual whether a traditional method or this modern solution will be a better choice for you. Online schools are perfect for those who do not require practical knowledge and people who are already working.
On the other side, you should never rush with the decision of attending the first online school you see. It is important to check if they have a valid accreditation. Also, we have to mention the online courses, which are also a great way to fill your curriculum and expand the knowledge.