Regardless of where a person gets their higher education, there are benefits. Those who pursue online learning or online education reap the same rewards as those who choose the traditional campus based experience plus some. As you read further, I hope you will find these findings helpful in determining if online education is in your best interest as you as you make your educational plans.
Convenience. In our contemporary society, we have become accustomed to drive through windows for fast food, banking, cleaners, pharmacies, and more. In our high tech fast paced lifestyle, we can now add furthering our education online from home, or work. As each semester passes, the number of colleges and universities offering online courses and degrees is growing as the schools compete for the student tuition dollars.
Flexibility. According to a recent study, 80% of the students going back to school between 25 and 35 are women, many are working moms, and many of those are single parents. Who could possibly benefit more from a flexible schedule than a working mom? When you can take classes on your terms, and study over lunch hour, or at a soccer game, or after the last “good night mommy”, then there is a way to make this work. Sure, you’ll be tired, but think of how great that better paying job is going to be for you and the family.
Location. This is a major benefit, because with online education, school is where you are 24/7 with just a click of your mouse, there is no distance in distance learning. You can go to school at home, in the park, at the coffee shop, remember you are in charge of your education.
Less Expensive. You save money on fast food meals before night class, childcare in the evening after work, gas money for trips to campus and the wear and tear on the car. You can enjoy the benefits of having your campus at home without the financial drain and hardships that are associated with attending college. You can trade all of this for internet access which most people have anyway.
Improve online skills. There is a natural benefit gained from online courses and exams, and that is you become more proficient in web related research, bulletin boards, blogging and social networking for business and pleasure. It is the education you get that you weren’t looking for.
Individual attention. Professors, who teach online courses, often have more one on one interaction with their students than those in classroom settings. I remember those intimate lecture classes with 300 to 500 students, who never talked to the professor, and had a graduate assistant for a lab instructor. Therefore, it is quite possible that your online professor will know more about you and your educational aspirations needs and goals than the university alternative.
Remember, these are just a few of the benefits you can experience by taking online classes. Prior to committing totally to online education, or night school, take an online course that will fit your degree plan and see how it works for you.
Also, consider the credit by exam alternative, check with the college of your choice regarding their transfer of credit policy from other institutions and credit by CLEP testing. Knowing your options should give you the confidence in your ability to be successful in the online learning environment. You are now ready to take advantage of the opportunity and enjoy the experience and the flexibility available to you online.
