Posted by Sharon Cece on July 11th, 2008
I first attended college back in 1984, fully expecting to have my degree within the customary four years. My goals at that time were typical: job, college, boyfriend turn into career, degree, marriage. But as many of you know, “life” takes detours and that sometimes includes your education. Somehow, without planning it, I left college (with 96 credits under my belt!) and though my work experiences and marriage stayed on track, my education took a pit stop.
Though my life was pretty fulfilled, I continued to have this nagging sense of unfinished business. I often said how I wished I finished my degree at Florida State, but here I was almost 20 years later living in Raleigh, North Carolina. Talk about a long commute!
Fortunately, FSU had a good distance learning program and they were able to restructure the classes I had taken for Business Administration into a Social Science program. For the record, it is no easy ride with distance learning. It was very challenging at times with a little one tugging me while I finished a timed quiz in my bathrobe, or juggling my school cap among all the other hats I wore. But finishing my degree online enabled me to fit in my studies whenever I wanted, for the most part, and within my schedule rather than the other way around. I needed the sheer flexibility of eLearning or it wouldn’t have happened for me.
In April of 2006, I received my Bachelor of Science in Social Science. My degree is hanging directly over my laptop as I type, in a stunning frame that I splurged on in the FSU school colors (of course!) Garnet and Gold. Though I am proud of many things I have accomplished in my life, I cannot describe, even now, how amazed I am that after 21 years I finally have my degree.
Posted by mcjoshie99 on July 9th, 2008
While online learning has its advantages, there are some disadvantages as well:
Learners with little or no motivation or poor study habits may fall behind or even fail the course
Without the routine structure of a traditional classroom setting, students may get lost or confused about course activities and deadlines – Asking questions and anticipating deadlines is crucial.
Students may feel a lack of interaction from the instructor and their classmates
Instructor may not always be available when students are studying or need help
Slow Internet connections or older computers may make accessing course materials difficult
Managing computer files and online learning software can seem complex for students who are not computer savvy
Hands-on or lab work is difficult to simulate in an online setting.
Students have to wait for feedback until the instructor has reviewed their work and responded to it.
Certain employers do not acknowledge online learning. Students who want to work for a specific employer after graduation should be aware of the employer’s perspective about online education.
Posted by mcjoshie99 on July 9th, 2008
These are some advantages that online learning offers students:
Class work can be scheduled around those who work and have families
Reduces travel time and travel costs for students living off campus or that drive long distances to attend school
Students may have the option to select learning materials that match their interests and skill level
Students can work anywhere they have access to a computer and Internet connection
Students to work at their own pace
Flexibility to join discussions in the discussion forum at any hour, allowing them to converse with classmates and instructors
eLearning accommodates different learning styles and facilitates learning through a variety of activities
Students develop computers skills that will help them throughout their lives and careers
Successfully completing online courses encourages students to take responsibility for their learning - DISCIPLINE
Students can test out of courses already mastered and concentrate on mastering new skills
Posted by admin on May 13th, 2008
Millions of individuals have already discovered online education. This emerging form of learning has seen rapid growth in recent years, as new technologies have created an unprecedented capability for engaging, interactive instruction. And the numbers don’t lie: the online education industry has watched enrollment numbers grow by over 20% in each of the last 4 years. And it is anticipated that these numbers will continue to rise as more and more people learn of all the benefits an online degree can offer. For example, in the next 5 years, online student enrollment is expected to double.
You can be at the forefront of this revolution in education by earning a degree from any number of online programs. Employers around the globe understand what a degree from these institutions means. Individuals who study online know how to balance responsibilities, and they take pride in their work; often times, individuals too busy to attend classes enroll in online programs to equip themselves with the tools necessary to bring their career to the next level. Individuals who study online are committed to learning, and they are resourceful; they understand the limitations of the traditional higher education and the benefits that an online program can offer. This is exactly the type of dedication and forward thinking that many employers seek. Of course, you are not furthering your education just for future employers. You are earning a degree for yourself. Here are 10 reasons why the best way to earn that degree is online:
- Increased flexibility means you can study online on your schedule
- Lower credit and tuition costs compared to a traditional 4 year college
- Classes start every 4-6 weeks
- Federal financial aid is available for students that decide to study 100% online
- A majority of colleges are accredited by their regional education accreditation board
- Earn a full degree in half the time of a traditional college (1-2 years for Associate degree, 2-3 years for a Bachelors degrees and 1-2 years for Masters/MBA degrees)
- Most online colleges will accept credits from other institutions
- Some colleges offer ground locations for face to face instruction
- Working adults can maintain their fulltime jobs, family obligations and earn the degree they need
- College students can take classes online that can transfer to their traditional college or university
