Advantages and disadvantages to allowing employees to embark on study courses

 Advantages

1. As study courses are done out of company time this would mean that the you would not suffer due to loss of productivity
2. More and more study courses are distance learning and achieved at the students own speed and time.  This is beneficial, as the employee on a distance course does not feel under pressure from both work and study. 
3. The employee attending a distance-learning course will not feel rushed and this may aid learning.
4. Most courses offer a range of qualifications on completion of the course and so the employee would feel as if they have attained something; ultimately this would boost confidence, skill and knowledge.  The employee can only benefit from these three things and so would your business.
5. Study courses have a system assessment and so both you and your employee can check progress, attainment and achievement on a regular basis. 
6. NVQ's, GNVQ's and many professional qualifications can be attained through study courses and this can directly affect the productivity and profitability of you company in the long term.
7. As the government are promoting companies to attain NTET - "National Targets for Education and Training" set by "The confederation of British Industries" in the 1990's, promoting study courses would go a long way in helping companies achieve these standards.

Disadvantages  

1. As many study courses are often nationally standardised, they may be limited in what they can offer you company, therefore it is advisable to obtain a course outline before you allow your employee to embark on a course.
2. Distance study courses require individuals to be motivated in order to complete tasks, assessments or assignments.  If an employee assigned to a distance learning course is not motivated enough or undervalues the course they have been placed on they may spend the time or energy to complete the course and money would be wasted.  Consider paying for the course in stages rather than all at once to spur the employee on.
3. Many courses require a number of years before the course is complete.  Employees placed on these courses should be chosen wisely to ensure they have the motivation to stay on the course for such a length of time.  A poor choice can lead to loss of money and time.
4. Once an employee has gained a good qualification at the expense of the employer, they might find employment elsewhere, therefore examine their motives and weigh up the consequences.