Why Are You Interested In Taking an Online Course?

You may be interested in online courses because they eliminate some everyday problems associated with going to a campus for day or evening classes. If you have:

• Daycare issues, an online course would allow you to learn at home, but remember you need a dedicated block of quiet time to work on your assignments and reading.

• Work schedule problems, an online course would allow you to take classes without interruption.

• Travel constraints, you can work on your course at home or use a laptop and participate in your class anywhere that there is access to the Internet.

Will It Work For You?

Although an online course may seem to fit your lifestyle, the reality is that to be successful a student should:

• Communicate well in writing,

• Have proper equipment and knowledge of software applications,

• Have self-discipline (can manage time and does NOT procrastinate), and

• Have motivation (does not need a lot of direction)

What's Next?

Asking yourself why you are interested is only the first step to making an informed decision about taking an online course.

What Are The Pros of Online Learning?

There are many reasons why online courses are just as good as, if not better than, traditional courses:

• Your learning options are not constrained by your geographic location.

• Since you don't have to spend time commuting to class there are no travel costs.

• Learning can be fit into your busy schedule. Online courses give you the flexibility to log into your course at any time of day or night.

• You have continuous access to lectures, course materials, and class discussions. You can learn at your own pace - reread a lecture or take more time to reflect on some material before moving on.

• You can decide when to complete your assignments and readings.

• In fact, online courses can be more focused on the learner and less on the instructor.

• Online courses offer a discussion area, which often generates more student-to-student interaction. Everyone has a chance to be "heard," rather than a few students monopolizing a discussion.

• It is easier to have those discussions, because you can prepare what you want to say offline, spell check and proofread it, and post it when you are ready. Interaction is a higher quality.

• You can take a quiz online, and get instant feedback on how you did.

What's Next?

Considering the pros of online learning is only the second step to making an informed decision about taking an online course.

What Are The Cons of Online Learning?

There are some disadvantages to online courses that you need to be aware of before you decide to register for one:

• The lack of face-to-face interaction can be difficult if you like personalized attention from your teachers.

• In addition, an online course does not provide the social aspects of a traditional classroom.

• There is no set time and place when your class will meet, so you will have to take responsibility for your learning, and be self-disciplined and motivated enough to work on your assignments on your own.

• If you are a procrastinator or you always need an extra push to complete assignments, you may have difficulty making time for your online classes.

• You must possess a minimum level of computer knowledge in order to function successfully in an online environment.

• Online courses will also require you to learn new skills, such as navigating within the features of your course.

• Because there is no verbal discussion, you must be comfortable with and have time to focus on writing. Most communication is written.

• Online courses are often more work than campus-based courses.

• You can feel isolated when questions and technical issues come up.

What's Next?

Considering the cons of online learning is only the third step to making an informed decision about taking an online course.

What Are The Expectations of Online Learning?

Instructors expect online students to:

• Submit assignments by the specified deadline and in the format requested.

• Participate with other students through discussions or group projects.

• Understand that online courses are just as rigorous as face-to-face courses.

• Keep in frequent email contact.

Students can expect instructors to:

• Return emails promptly (within two to three days).

• Provide immediate notification of any changes to the course format, assignments, or due dates.

• Keep the course website current.

• Provide a way for students to interact with other students online.

• Direct students to appropriate college resources for technical or research support.

Keep in mind that clear communication requires more effort in an online environment. It is your responsibility to let the instructor know when you have questions, are confused, or need technical support.