Pros and Cons of Taking Online Summer Courses in High School

by:

Laura Loughead

March 29, 2024

Students needing to take a course over the summer should consider the pros and cons of taking their summer course online!

Many high school students consider taking online courses over the summer, whether it be to get ahead or catch up in a subject. While online courses offer flexibility and accessibility, they do come with their own set of advantages and disadvantages. It’s important for students to consider whether an online course is a good fit for them before enrolling. Below, we share some of the pros and cons of online summer courses.

Pros of Online Summer Courses:

Flexibility & Convenience

Online summer courses offer students the flexibility to learn at their own pace and on their own schedule. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for students who have other commitments during the summer, such as internships, jobs, or family obligations. The convenience of accessing course materials from anywhere with an internet connection can be a game-changer for those looking to balance various responsibilities.

Self-Paced Learning

Students can move through online courses at their own pace, which is helpful for those who are retaking a course and need extra time with concepts, or those who are taking a challenging course and want to take their time with the curriculum. Online summer courses promote personalized learning experiences tailored to individual needs.

Access to a Variety of Courses

Virtual platforms often provide a wide range of course options, allowing students to explore subjects that may not be available in their regular high school curriculum. This diversity can be especially beneficial for those with specific academic interests or those looking to get a head start on college prerequisites. Students looking for a specialty course such as AP Microeconomics or Career Explorations in Dentistry have the opportunity to take those courses over the summer through an online school such as Holston Academy.

Individualized Attention

Some online courses offer personalized support and feedback from instructors, allowing students to receive individualized attention and guidance tailored to their unique learning needs. This can be particularly beneficial for students who may require additional assistance or have specific learning challenges.

Cons of Online Summer Courses:

Need to Vet Online Schools Before Choosing One

Many online schools provide summer courses, but it’s important to make sure the course is provided by an accredited school. This is crucial so your credits will transfer to your current high school. 

Self-Motivation Required

Since many online summer courses are self-paced, students need to keep up with their work and proactively reach out to their teachers if they have questions with their course work.

Without the structure of a traditional classroom setting, some students may struggle with self-motivation, leading to procrastination or a lack of consistent effort in completing assignments.

Limited Social Interaction

One of the main drawbacks of online courses is the reduced opportunity for face-to-face interaction. Traditional classrooms provide a social environment that contributes to the overall high school experience, fostering friendships and collaboration that may be lacking in a virtual setting. 

Shorter Course Duration

Many summer courses are condensed to fit within a shorter time frame. While this can be beneficial for gaining specific knowledge quickly, it may also mean a faster pace of learning, potentially causing stress for students who struggle to keep up with the accelerated curriculum.

Choosing to enroll in an online summer course during high school comes with its share of advantages and disadvantages. It’s crucial for students to weigh these factors carefully and consider their individual learning preferences, goals, and lifestyles. While online courses provide flexibility and accessibility, they also require self-motivation and come with the potential drawback of limited social interaction. Ultimately, a thoughtful and informed decision is key to making the most of this educational opportunity. Visit our website if you’re interested in taking an online summer course with an accredited online school.