---
title: Top 6 Myths About Online Learning
description: Now that most universities have transitioned to remote learning, it’s time to separate fact from fiction. We debunk the top 6 myths about online learning.
image: https://admissions.usf.edu/hubfs/blogs/Admit-A-Bull/images/blog-post/042920-top-5-myths-about-online-learning/top-5-myths-about-online-learning-inline-1.jpg
---

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# Top 6 Myths About Online Learning

[By Jen Carlevatti](https://admissions.usf.edu/blog/top-6-myths-about-online-learning#author) | Last Updated: Mar 5, 2025

![ A female student in a beige sweater with headphones attends a online course on her laptop](https://admissions.usf.edu/hubfs/top-5-myths-about-online-learning-header.jpg " A female student in a beige sweater with headphones attends a online course on her laptop")

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Top 6 Myths About Online Learning

4:43

Before the COVID-19 pandemic spread to every corner of the earth, you may have given little thought to online learning. Or maybe you heard the whispers that online classes were easy, or that your brother could take your calculus final for you and no one would ever know. Now that students at nearly every university in the United States have transitioned to remote learning, it’s time to separate fact from fiction. Follow along as we debunk the **top 6 myths about online learning**.

## ** Myth #6: You Can’t Interact with Your Professors or Classmates**

Despite the fact that EVERYONE uses Instagram and FaceTime these days (including your grandma), rumors persist that you won’t be able to communicate with anyone if you take an online course. It’s not 1990 anymore, folks (aka the Stone Age).  

Remote learning platforms have evolved to include discussion rooms and video chats, and it’s likely your professor will hold virtual “office hours” for students who need a little extra help or have questions. Some course instructors even set up Facebook groups or other online forums to make it easier for the class to interact.

Bottom line: Just like social media, there are [numerous ways to ask questions](https://www.usnews.com/education/online-learning-lessons/articles/2018-01-26/4-ways-to-communicate-with-professors-in-online-courses) and share with classmates in an online course.

## ** Myth #5: You Have to Teach Yourself the Material**

When you envision taking an online course, what comes to mind – downloading a mountain of course material and being left to sink or swim on your own? Banish those thoughts.

As they do for an in-person class, your professors will likely use a combination of lectures, activities, quizzes, and homework to teach the subject matter. And if you have questions, it’s your responsibility to seek guidance from the professor – just as you would for a brick-and-mortar course.  

![ A female student in a beige sweater with headphones attends a online course on her laptop](https://admissions.usf.edu/hs-fs/hubfs/blogs/Admit-A-Bull/images/blog-post/042920-top-5-myths-about-online-learning/top-5-myths-about-online-learning-inline-1.jpg?width=740&name=top-5-myths-about-online-learning-inline-1.jpg)

## ** Myth #4: Online Courses Are Easier**

Sorry (not sorry), but we have to pour cold water on this myth, too. Yes, you can attend class in your pajamas, but online courses require just as much time and attention as in-person classes. You still need to listen to lectures and do the required reading. You still have to complete assignments and take tests. You still need to participate in course discussions. What you won’t be able to do is click your way to an easy A.

## ** Myth #3: It’s Easy to Cheat in Online Courses**

While this may have been true at one time, tremendous improvements in remote learning have made cheating tougher. From browser blocking functions during test sessions to keystroke tracking to online proctors, [new technology](https://edtechmagazine.com/higher/article/2017/07/universities-use-analytics-authentication-prevent-cheating-online-courses) often makes it more difficult to cheat in online courses, not easier.

Online instruction also tends to require classroom interaction, micro-quizzes and video presentations as part of your grade, so it’s often more of a hassle to find ways to cheat than just doing the work.

![ A male college student attends an online course on his laptop](https://admissions.usf.edu/hs-fs/hubfs/top-5-myths-about-online-learning-inline-2.jpg?width=740&name=top-5-myths-about-online-learning-inline-2.jpg)

## ** Myth #2: Only Tech Geniuses Can Take Online Courses**

Repeat after me: You do not need to be Mark Zuckerberg to take an online class. It’s helpful to have your own computer and a relatively speedy internet connection, but even those obstacles can be surmounted. Many universities and libraries offer loaner laptops and access to [eduroam](https://www.eduroam.org/), a worldwide service that provides secure internet connectivity from thousands of hotspots.

To attend class, you’ll typically log in to an online learning platform (like [Canvas](https://www.instructure.com/canvas/)) from your browser. Your instructor may supplement the online learning platform with other tools like Microsoft Teams, but if you can master social media, you can master remote learning.

## ** Myth #1: Online Courses Require More Self-Discipline **

If you managed to make it to your 8 a.m. biology lecture after pulling an all-nighter, you’ll do just fine in an online course. Most courses at USF follow a “live-online” format, which means classes will be delivered at a set time, just as if you were on campus.

Online learning may take a little getting used to, but the [skills that help you succeed at traditional learning](https://goodcolleges.online/study-tips-for-success/) – good study habits, completing work on time, and taking part in class – will serve you well in this new format.

![An overhead view of a professor teaching a remote learning course on a student's laptop](https://admissions.usf.edu/hs-fs/hubfs/blogs/Admit-A-Bull/images/blog-post/042920-top-5-myths-about-online-learning/top-5-myths-about-online-learning-index.jpg?width=740&name=top-5-myths-about-online-learning-index.jpg)

## **We’re Here to Help During These Turbulent Times**

If you’re a current USF student, check out our [online learning toolkit](https://www.usf.edu/academic-continuity/student-toolkit/index.aspx) to explore trending topics and access learning support, tech services, academic advising, and more.

For incoming students, the Office of Admissions is still working hard (albeit remotely) to answer your questions and provide support at [admissions@usf.edu](mailto:admissions@usf.edu). We’ve also developed a [toolkit for new students and parents](https://www.usf.edu/academic-continuity/new-student-parent-toolkit/index.aspx) to welcome them into the community and continue on the path to enrollment.

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[![Jen Carlevatti](https://admissions.usf.edu/hubfs/blogs/Admit-A-Bull/images/authors/carlevatti-jen.png)

### About Jen Carlevatti

Jen Carlevatti, former Associate Director of Communications and freelance Content Developer for USF, she enjoys empowering students in college admissions.

](https://admissions.usf.edu/blog/author/jen-carlevatti)

### [**Previous Post ![](https://admissions.usf.edu/hubfs/blogs/Admit-A-Bull/images/blog-post/050420-nine-tips-to-help-students-succeed-in-online-classes/nine-tips-to-help-students-succeed-in-online-classes-inline.jpg) 10 Tips to Help Students Succeed in Online Classes](https://admissions.usf.edu/blog/10-tips-to-help-students-succeed-in-online-classes)

### [Next Post** ![](https://admissions.usf.edu/hubfs/blogs/Admit-A-Bull/images/blog-post/05132020-5-ways-to-connect-with-peers-in-an-onlne-class/5-ways-to-connect-with-peers-in-an-onlne-class-inline.jpg) 5 Ways to Connect with Peers in an Online Class](https://admissions.usf.edu/blog/5-ways-to-connect-with-peers-in-an-online-class)

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