Traditional students don't necessarily require the same level of computer skills associated with online and distance-learning students. Students who are inexperienced with using computers or the Internet might be better off starting college in the traditional way. Also, not all students have Internet connections fast enough to adequately download learning materials and upload their work.
Although people learning online may receive personalized support, many students prefer in person, face-to-face conversations about their academic work. Additionally, some ideas and concepts may be difficult for students to grasp without a teacher physically demonstrating in person and explaining them.
Staying disciplined and motivated can be difficult for online students, as they are not physically surrounded by people to provide them with support and enthusiasm. Traditional students have the opportunity to routinely be encouraged by their friends, classmates and teachers when they feel unmotivated. Therefore, students who lack some inner motivation might fare better as traditional students.
Occasionally when classes get harder, online students have more trouble mastering a topic before moving on. However, in-person professors can help traditional students. This occurs because face-to-face teaching enables the teacher to assist the student immediately, minimizing the amount of time the student will be stuck; online, this process could require several email exchanges and potentially take days.