CultusMost probably the greatest benefit of online education is the incredible convenience that it offers: you can do your schoolwork and studying based on your schedule, no more 8:00 a.m. classes, no more 4-hour lectures.
This has huge implications for students who have jobs, a family to take care of, or both. So, instead of trying to juggle your classes around a 9-to-5 job or your son’s soccer practice, distance learning gives you the flexibility to take your classes when you can fit them in.
Earning a degree through online education brings many advantages, but still you may not suit for this type of education mode. If you want to check if the e-learning is not right for you or not, go through the following points below:
Social butterfly type
If you are a social butterfly, who flourishes when others are around, attending an online course might not be for you. If, on the other side, you are quiet and reserved, online education can be your ticket to success.
You have a tendency of quitting a project due to lack of motivation?
If you cannot stay motivated on your own, an online institution is not your best choice. To be successful online student, you must be able to self-motivate, and complete projects or assignment to meet your preset schedule.
You like listening lectures instead of reading them
In online learning environment, you are expected to master material through reading alone, although some online courses offer video recordings and audio clips, most programs require that students understand a large amount of information, that is only available through written text. If your way of learning is better with listening to the lectures and taking notes, then traditional class-based courses will suit you better.
You do not want to surf the Internet
Many people are surfing internet everyday, therefore – there are different types of Internet users. Some of them are surfing Internet just because they want to search for information and they feel surfing Internet is not a fun but a need. When there is no need, they will stay away from it. If you are in this group, online education may not right for you, because online courses require you to understand more than just how to log onto the Internet. You need to know how to use chat rooms, message boards, forums and instant messaging, or at least be willing to learn how to.
You find it hard learning of new computer programs
Depending on the online course you decide to take, you may need to download new software programs. If you find it difficult to learn the new computer technology, you will need to either set aside more time for learning, or take a traditional class.
b>You are not keen to arrange you own schedule of study
You prefer following a fix and pre-arrange schedule for your study. The freedom of working at your own schedule, can cause you to put off your assignments or wait until the last moment to write your papers.
Summary
Remember that online learning is not for everyone. It is an excellent choice for some, but others will always struggle with learning independently. After comparing your personality, habits and goals, you can decide if online degree is right for you. If it isn’t then you can either try to change your habits and personality or opt for traditional classes.
Like never before hasn’t it been so easy to pursue the task of continuing education and improving your skills. The trends for online continuing education are to make it easier than ever before, to get your degrees, regardless of the type of degree you are after. Everything from a certificate of completion to completing your doctorate can find a way to do it online.
Home schooling isn’t just for the kids anymore. The Internet is the key to helping you further your education and acquire the skills that will help you in your career all from the comfort of home.
Well, it all sound great, but there are some pitfalls to continuing education online.
First, as you pursue continuing education and home schooling, make sure the university or company offering the course or the degree is a reputable and accredited school. This makes a world of difference for potential employers and in the quality of your learning.
Remember that not all continuing education online providers are reputable. Check references and accreditation carefully and if you’re pursuing the degree and your current employer will cover the bill, make sure the online university you choose is one approved by your company.
In the USA, the school should be accredited by one of six regional agencies. If you do not find one of these agencies listed, check with the U.S. Department of Education to see if the accrediting agency is real and acceptably recognized. If not, then it is probably better to make a different choice of schools for your continuing education needs.
Secondly, make sure you are ready for online continuing education as learning online is different from traditional classroom style learning. Self-direct and motivate yourself to complete the assigned tasks in a reasonable time frame, as there is no teacher or class meeting creating the deadlines for you.
The costs for continuing education online can vary anywhere from USD30.00 per class to as much as USD1000.00 per class. You may be able to get financial assistance if you are taking online classes to meet college degree requirements. The school must have the proper accreditation in order to be able to offer financial assistance processing.
The longer the school has provided distance education, the more likely are your chances of having a good experience with online learning.
Online learning being a very popular way to complete your degree and to get the continuing education credits you need to maintain licensure for many professions. For the busy adult it can be a great choice for education, so review your options carefully and start learning today.
