text: Granted, distance education is a great thing. Students who didn't have access to formal education before are now able to receive it, opening them up to more opportunities later in life. But distance education shouldn't be considered a perfect alternative. It doesn't make up for experiences you can have in a traditional setting. Communicating online has a separate etiquette than doing so face-to-face. While you may be getting the standard textbook materials, distance education isn't all that beneficial, especially to those who face distractions at home, require a different learning experience, or need to expand their social capacities. Online education is limited, and should only be used when absolutely necessary, for the student's sake.In the 21st century, technology has infiltrated the lives of Americans, entering into commercial, private, and education spheres. With this new spread of technological innovation, people are able to communicate over long distances. This long-distance communication and the invention of the internet allows students complete assignments online, with some even able to be digitally present in the classroom through video conferencing. However, this form of learning is not beneficial to students as it can reduce social skills and interaction, result in communication errors, and cause students to be distracted while learning from their home.