Is A Distance Learning College Degree For You?

By Bob Hobson

The internet has opened a new world for students eager to earn a distance learning college degree right from home. Particularly in the last ten years, it's forced educators to think outside the box when it comes to higher learning. Imagine attending a lecture, receiving and submitting assignments and taking exams all online without seeing the inside of a school. Distance learning can be of great benefit, but is it for everyone? What are the advantages and disadvantages?

You can save time and be more flexible

If you'd like to earn a college degree while holding down a full or part-time job, caring for children or aging parents, distance learning could be for you. Perhaps you're a night owl and getting up for an 8 a. m. class just doesn't work for you. Since there's no schedule to keep with your computer, distance learning may have the flexibility you require.

How far away is your nearest college or university?

If the college or university in your area doesn't offer your course of study, you can attend a university or college anywhere in the world via the internet. Some post-secondary institutions are banding together, allowing you to complete your degree by taking courses from a variety of schools. This is particularly convenient for students in rural areas, who don't want to leave home or waste time traveling to university everyday

Avoid waiting lists for popular programs

If you're trying to earn a degree, you may find that many of the popular courses fill up fast, but online classes are never full. Complement your current program with online classes and you may earn your degree more quickly.

Online learning isn't for everyone

If you're a self-motivated type of person, online learning may suit you very well. If you need to answer to a professor to help you stay on task and be accountable, you may need to attend class in person. Be honest with yourself. Can you open your laptop and dig in or do you need a professor in a classroom waiting to take attendance? Only you know for sure. Introverts may do better than extroverts when it comes to distance learning.

Make sure you can transfer your credits

So far, distance learning seems too good to be true. But if you're thinking of transferring your online courses to a future program or study, do your homework. An accredited post-secondary institution can determine if your online programs are recognized. The reverse should also be true - credits from any courses taken at a college or university should apply to a degree program that you take online.

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1 comments:

  EducationInfo

July 25, 2010 at 9:48 PM

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