There
are many advantages to online courses and degree programs. Not only
does it offer an opportunity for those unable to take traditional
full-time classes such as working professionals and parents, but it
also offers more freedom and flexibility to students of all types.
Online education is widely accepted as being just as valuable as the
classroom experience. And many colleges, universities, businesses,
and organizations worldwide, now offer their students fully accredited
online degrees and continuing education programs. But there are still
important questions and steps one should consider when pursuing an
online education. Such as determining whether it is a good fit for
your own personal needs and learning style, and which programs are
credible and best for your learning goals.
The growing popularity of online courses is undeniable, with online
enrollment currently growing at a staggering 33% a year. There are
more than 3 million students currently involved in distance or online
learning according to the Distance Education and Training Council.
And in today's increasingly connected world, this number continues
to grow, and at a faster rate.
Degrees obtained through online courses and programs can be just as
valuable as degrees from more conventional programs, but it is important
to choose one that is respected and accredited. This
is because much like choosing a traditional college or university,
some online programs offer better educations and hold better reputations
than others. Members of the Apollo group, the Online University Consortium,
and many top tier universities are safe bets for choosing a credible
program. Also, U.S. News and World Report posts a list of well respected
regional and professional accredited online
graduate programs.
The Internet is even able to capture a lot of the same activities
students partake in while learning in traditional classroom settings.
For example, videoconferencing in real time allows students and professors
to interact visually, and chat rooms and message boards help build
relationships, make it convenient for students to help each other,
and improve a professor's accessibility. And these tools and classroom
resources are always at a student's fingertips, so that they can view
past lectures, pour over message boards, and interact with other students
when it's convenient for them. This ensures that students never miss
out on a lesson or lecture or fall behind, as class information and
resources are available at all times online.
The cost benefit of online programs lies mainly in the opportunity
costs saved, as most students are able to keep their jobs while taking
online classes. Savings are also realized in the absence of related
school costs such as transportation and housing. Another consideration
is that online courses are offered at the same price to students whether
they are in state or out-of-state. This can make a huge difference
when taking an online class at most state schools, as out-of-state
costs will run significantly less than the on campus versions, in
some cases even comparable to in state tuition. Relocation costs are
forgone as well, which can be most beneficial to those looking to
partake in a specialized program at a school that would normally require
a burdensome relocation. For example, Cornell's renowned hotel management
program can now be taken online at eCornell.
It is of course important to realize that online learning is certainly
not for everyone. The most successful students of online learning
are self-motivated as courses rarely enforce strict deadlines or class
schedules, and work completion is done mostly at your own discretion.
Those individuals that prefer face-to-face communication and group
work should weigh these factors into their decision as well, deciding
whether the online replacements for such elements are satisfactory.
It is essential that prospective students are realistic about their
own self-discipline and learning style before signing up.
-
Caitlin Kneram, Salary.com contributor
|
