Distance Learning through Online College Programs
A Look into the Online Higher Education Experience
Apr 15, 2009
The convenient, fast-paced and inexpensive programs appeal to almost any potential college student.
Marketing to a Wide Range of People
The appeal of these online or distance learning degrees spans a wide variety of groups. Obviously, schools target the average college freshman by offering a do-it-yourself-on-your-own-time curriculum. Many incoming college freshman find this idea very appealing.
Not only will they be able to go at their own pace, but the flex schedule would also allow students to hold a full or part-time job while also attending school. Schools offer many different programs– the selection isn’t as vast as it would be at a regular college or university, but the pickings are far from slim.
Online learning is also ideal for working mothers/fathers seeking to move away from their dead-end jobs and into real careers. The flex schedule provides a perfect medium between work and school, making their goals realistic. There are also many programs which equate to associate’s degrees or certifications that would allow those looking for a real career to finish their schooling in anywhere from six months to two years time.
These programs are also very appealing for adults seeking a career change. The fast-paced programs are very appealing to those individuals looking for a career change in the near future.
Validity of The Online Degree
It’s obvious that online programs are very appealing to people in many different walks of life, but will they hold a candle to degrees earned at regular colleges and universities. This is a sticky subject, many people frown upon the “easy” online degree when they probably shouldn’t.
There are even regular state and private schools that offer select degrees entirely online. Obviously degrees from more prestigious schools will hold more weight, but the same is true with degrees actually earned in the classroom.
The biggest issue is accreditation… as not all online schools are accredited. When considering an online degree, be sure to check out its accreditation. Research the schools: How long has it been around? How are the perceived in the world of higher education? There are many options out there for potential online students.
As long as the degree comes from an accredited college with an actual curriculum, it should be acceptable, especially considering the rising popularity of such programs.
Positives and Negatives of the Online Schooling Experience
Many classroom-based schools are implementing online components. Students typically meet in class once a week or once a month and the rest of their course is done via an online learning platform such as blackboard, desire2learn and e-college. This blend of the two formats is somewhat ideal.
When attending a program that is entirely online, students sometimes lose the personal relationships with one another as well as with their professors. Though, attending a very large school would probably provide similar results. The classroom experience is sometimes very important to students as the enjoy the human element of communication and/or the real-life examples and demonstrations. This isn’t necessarily possibly via the internet.
While this may not post a problem for some learners, it may be detrimental to others. Students at the college level should, however, have a working knowledge of how they learn and if personal communication is important, then online schooling may not be the best choice.
Aside from the obvious human/computer issue, online learning isn’t all that different from the classroom experience. There is reading, writing, critical thinking, group work and discussion involved in both learning venues. Just remember to be cautious about choosing a schools as accreditation is key.
