One of the best ways to move forward in a career, or to make a switch to a completely new field of work, is to obtain a new certificate or degree. But for busy adults, this can be a particularly difficult challenge to accept. Between working full or part time, keeping up with an active family life, and setting aside a little time for recreation, going back to college can seem like an impossible dream.
However, with the wide variety of degree programs online today, obtaining a degree is becoming an increasingly simplified task. Some of these programs are delivered entirely online and never require the student to visit the campus from which the program originates. Others offer a combined delivery system of online courses and classes that take place in a more traditional environment on campus. No matter which option students choose, taking some or all college credits online can save a great deal of time and stress.
Degree programs online provide students with the ability to attend classes without ever leaving home. Generally, students only require a computer with a reliable Internet connection in order to qualify to attend such classes. Online courses are typically delivered in either a synchronous or asynchronous format. Classes that are considered synchronous require class attendance at prearranged days and times. So, much like a traditional course, students must “arrive” on time and be prepared to participate in class discussions which often take place via message boards. By signing in to the course’s forum from any computer enabled with an Internet connection, the student attends class and interacts with the teacher and their fellow classmates.
When degree programs online utilize asynchronous methods, however, students are not required to participate in class activities at the same time. They may log in to the course’s website whenever it is convenient, responding to discussion items on the message board and checking for new assignments. This typically requires that the student sign in several times each week to keep current with the class, but they may do this at any time of the day or night that is convenient for them.
Whether degree programs online is offered asynchronously or synchronously, students who choose to earn a degree through such methods should possess a few characteristics that will help them succeed in this environment. Students who succeed in such programs should work well with little supervision and possess a great deal of self motivation. It is also helpful if such individuals are organized and driven to meet deadlines. Since regular class participation is also key to successful completion of online courses, students should be able to discipline themselves to checking in with classroom forums at scheduled intervals.
Rather than making students feel disconnected and uninvolved, online courses can actually give participants a great deal of interaction with students and their instructor. With plenty of time to read everyone’s thoughts and responses on a given subject, students acquire a greater familiarity with their classmates and can even receive a high degree of feedback from their teacher. In fact, instructors in degree programs online specialize in providing prompt, responsive assistance to students. Most such instructors have completed intensive training to prepare them to meet the unique challenges of teaching in an online environment and this training is of great benefit to students.
Whether online courses are attended by adults returning to school or high school graduates who are just beginning a college career, this method of learning can be remarkably effective. For organized, motivated students, online classes can be the best option for balancing work, school, family, and community commitments.