Thanks to the expansion of the Internet, interpreters today have access to more educational opportunities than ever before. Here are some things interpreters should consider when deciding between online and classroom training programs:

Cost

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, undergraduate tuition for public colleges has risen about 55 percent since 2001, bringing the average cost of college to $16,789 at a 4-year institution. Even if your onsite school isn’t a college, online courses are still significantly less expensive. This difference is especially visible when you factor in the potential savings associated with housing, transportation, books, and lost wages. In addition, because online training allows you to work while you’re taking classes, you’ll be less likely to take student loans and incur debt.

Flexibility

For students who work or who have obligations at home, leaving their job or family to attend class isn’t always an option. While traditional education is developed around a set agenda, online education allows students to cater their courses and homework around their family and work schedule. Thus, taking an online course will allow you to better yourself without having to sacrifice your priorities at home or taking days off from work.

Convenience

To attend a brick-and-mortar school, one has to relocate or commute to campus, carry books from classroom to classroom, reduce their hours at work, or even put their careers on hold. In contrast, online education allows you to access your course and materials in a more convenient setting. With just a computer and Internet connection, you can attend your online course on your own schedule and from the convenience of your home or office.

So, online or classroom training? Which do you prefer? We’d love to hear about your experiences with each!