Disadvantages of Online Technical Courses

High Cost

• Many online technical courses charge double what a traditional onsite school would charge. Unlike many onsite technical schools, the computer software and hardware needed to learn the topic is not available to the student for use in a school computer lab. Students must purchase and install these on their own computers if they don't already own them.

Lack of Supervision

• With online technical courses, there is no instructor to speak to guide you through the course and speak with in person. Communication is limited to email and online forums. Students who have difficulty learning these types of topics are better off in a traditional classroom environment.

Internet Access Needed

• Students learning technical topics must already know the basics of how to use a computer and the Internet. Students who may have trouble navigating through an online course website may run into problems. Lack of access to the Internet would also limit a student's opportunity to take online technical courses.

No Social Interaction

• Unlike a traditional classroom, students in online courses cannot talk to each other directly to discuss ideas, problems with projects, lessons or exam preparation. While some students can work well on their own, others need the social aspect of a group environment to have a more productive learning experience.

Opportunity for Cheating

• It is easier to cheat when taking an online course because there is no one supervising exams, assignments or projects. During exams, for instance, an online student can look at notes to help them answer questions. A student who is apt to cheat probably will not be able to apply new skills to real-world situations.

Transferability Issues

• Not all online courses are transferable. Some courses are designed to give general information about a topic without any emphasis on school requirements or without awarding class credits. Some are taught by individuals who have no teaching credentials. A student needs to be careful when selecting online classes and should ask a career counselor for advice on long-term goals.

Not Good for Procrastinators

• Online technical courses are a terrible option for individuals with bad time-management skills. A student who wants to be successful at online technical courses needs discipline, motivation and focus.