All Degrees

If you're like most people, you know someone who has taken an online class, or has considered it. After all, it makes perfect sense, especially when it comes to furthering your personal and professional goals. You can earn your degree online, minus all the time and location hassles that often accompany attendance at a traditional brick-and-mortar school.

It sounds like the perfect way to finally complete your once-embarked-upon-studies, or add that graduate or executive needed to advance your career, doesn't it? But how much do you really know about online learning? More importantly, is it right for you?

Some questions to ask yourself:

Can you commit 10-15 hours a week on your studies?

Just because online learning is convenient - the very nature of an online course is that you log on when it's easiest for you - doesn't mean the workload is any less intense. In fact, say experts, most online programs require the same amount of dedication, if not more, as traditional college programs.

For most back-to-schoolers, allotting a sufficient number of hours for schoolwork can be one of the most difficult challenges to their established lifestyle. Whether it's online, distance, or brick-and-mortar learning you're pursuing, make an honest assessment of the time you can realistically commit to your coursework.

Are you comfortable expressing your opinion, and taking an active role in communicating your ideas?

If you have no problem elaborating on your viewpoints and expressing yourself, you have the potential to do quite well in an online course. Much of your grade depends upon the feedback and insight you provide via online discussions.

Then again, those who tend to be hesitant to speak out also have an advantage. Online programs give those who may not be the most outspoken in a group setting, or those who need some time to formulate their thoughts, the ability to shine. Since most courses follow a similar format - one where you are typically asked to read or review a lesson plan and then post your thoughts to discussion questions - there is a great opportunity to flesh out your ideas and thoughts. Some students feel the engagement of an online class is actually higher than in the traditional setting because everyone has a chance to sound off, and interaction is encouraged across the board. Shyness no longer matters.

Are you comfortable with technology?

You'll need to be. Although many colleges and universities make the transition from the classroom to the computer virtually seamless, the nature of online learning is technologically demanding. You'll need to be familiar and comfortable with the Internet, downloading software (when necessary), and simulating all classroom activities (discussions, quest-and-answer, quizzes and tests, etc.) online.

Can you work independently?

If you're the type of student who needs a teacher in your face to keep you academically accountable, or who works best in a group setting, feeding off the motivation of others, you may need to re-evaluate your source of determination. You absolutely can learn to guide yourself within an online class environment, but you'll need to be aware of the distinct motivational differences that exist in the online classroom. You won't have an instructor front of you reminding you about coursework, nor will he or she be able to pick up on nonverbal clues that you need motivation. Not only does online learning demand you stay on top of your assignments and keep yourself stimulated, you'll need to communicate your concerns as they arise, and not rely on your classmate next to you to do so.

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