Is distance learning effective and/or worthwhile?

Question

I am seriously considering a course in HVAC that will cost approximately $800(US$). The vocational school estimates that it will take nine months to complete this course. I am considering distance learning (internet & snail mail) because I work full time (in unrelated industry). The school claims it is nationally recognized and that at the end of the course I will be HVAC certified and EPA approved. I have done my research & somewhat agree with their claim. I want to know, is there anyone out there who has completed such a course or similar course and can rid me of any lingering doubts before I take the plunge into this? Basically, does distance learning work? After completing the course, will I be employable in the HVAC field?

Answer 1

Well, distance learning can be effective and worthwhile, but it is largely dependent on what you are studying. If you were working on a degree, say, in business or theology or something you can get out of books, then yes, distance learning is a great option for those that have to work for a living or are a distance away from quality universities.
But, in my opinion, something hands on like the HVAC field would require hands on training. At some point during your training it would seem to me that you would need to be on campus to get your hands on systems and machines.
If I were an employer, wanting to hire someone for either maintenance or installation, I don't think I would hire someone that never touched a machine in their training.
Same for your own business. you have to ask yourself if it were august, and 112 outside, would you want someone coming to your house, charging a fortune for an emergency call that had never actually worked on an actual system in their training.
Just my opinion, of course.
Bottom line, I think the ideal situation would be a combination of both. Some type of tech school that would allow you to do classroom work online or something, then would also require you to show up for "lab" time and put what you are learning in to practice.

Answer 2

What you want to look for is STATE certified and ACCREDITED because they may say nationally recognized, but is this class recognized by the state. Call your state's board of higher education to see what schools have state certified programs in HVAC and find a campus close to your home and call the school to see if they have correspondence classes, but you may have to do classroom because some classes require hands on technique and lab time.

Answer 3

to a certain extent...YES