Why would you consider distant learning? Well, to begin with, you can take online classes when they are at your convenience. Study at home and avoid that annoying traffic in the meantime. Maybe you have small kids that you don’t want to bring to class with you. You may have held off your education for many reasons such as this one. Well, hold it off no longer. Another nice thing about learning from a distance is that you could have access to learning resources from your computer whenever you need them.
Some people worry that learning through online classes route won’t challenge them enough, but online classes can be very stimulating. If you have one that is not, you might even be able to take it from a different teacher.
At distancelearn.about.com you can find some helpful information about distant learning. This Web site states the dropout rate for online classes in higher education is higher than for classroom classes, which may be attesting to the fact that learning from a distance won’t be too easy. Distant learning is not just a joke. But About.com does suggest there are some questions students should ask before they sign up for online classes. First of all, a prospective student should assess his or her “level of readiness for independent study.” You should have a certain level of discipline because you have less structure and guidance than you would in a classroom.
Also ask yourself if you are right for distant learning, if you are likely to reach a level of success. Are you a self-starter? How do you learn best (the auditory way, visually, or both)? As a worker do you meet deadlines? How is your focus? How are you with figuring out instructions and following directions without having them read to you? How soon do you require feedback from your instructor (online, you may have to wait a day or more)? Will you be able to organize class material? How are your technology skills? If you are asked to use things such as VCRs, TVs, computers, or e-mail, will you be okay with that?
Check out this information at distancelearn.about.com. This site is very helpful if you are considering this form of learning, which can be extremely beneficial to pursue. There is also a question and answer page here to help you with concerns such as financial aid for this form of education, what you should know about fraud, or questions about applying, registering, and transferring credits.
If you want a place to start for schools, you can check out Breyer State University at breyerstate.com. They offer online higher education that is, “focused, self-paced and supported by dedicated and accomplished faculty.” You can earn your associate, bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral, and PhD level degrees with them. They also offer experiential degree programs. You will also find college certificate programs and continuing education programs. If you wish, you can also take advantage of their degrees by self-design. See what opportunities at different colleges and universities for learning from a distance are waiting for you.
By Laura Hogg