We’ve all heard a horror story from someone regarding online education. Perhaps it was a student who enrolled in an online course and didn’t feel that they learned anything. Perhaps it was someone who felt that online courses were too difficult, or too easy, or not worth the cost. Whatever the case may be, it’s important to remember that online courses and online education isn’t the right fit for all students.
Some students will thrive in the online classroom. These students are typically self-motivated, deadline driven, and a have a high level of reading comprehension, as well as strong writing ability.
Before deciding to pursue a degree online, potential students should evaluate their own abilities and determine if online courses are truly the correct path for their future. Most online colleges and universities provide students with an orientation course. This course is typically free and allows students an opportunity to experience an online classroom and make a more informed decision regarding whether online courses will be the right fit.
As students enter their course, typically the syllabus and all materials are available before the course officially starts, giving students an opportunity to review the materials and decide whether the course will fit their needs and if they will be able to accomplish the tasks presented. I always encourage students to review all of the materials at the beginning of the course and to be sure that the deadlines work with their schedule as well. Having a student take a 2 week vacation during a 5 week course isn’t very practical.
Most schools open courses at least a week prior to when the course officially begins. Personally, I know that I am always available to answer questions before the class begins to help students make an informed decision regarding the course.
Academic advisors and counselors are also available to help students who aren’t sure if the online classroom is the right fit for their needs. Unfortunately, I think many still have the preconceived notion that online education is easy – and then when students enter the classroom and realize the amount of reading and writing that is typically required they can quickly become scared and back out of the course. It is very important for students, and for those who are mentoring new online students, to be sure to encourage students to read the syllabus carefully and to review the course before the start date.
Within my classroom, on Day Two, I share a handout where I review many important aspects of the online classroom. For example, I encourage students to thoroughly read the syllabus, map out a calendar of the assignment deadlines, to set aside time each day to login to the online classroom, etc. I also stress to students that if they think they can get by without reading the material they will most likely be quite unhappy with their grade.
While the online classroom isn’t the right fit for all students, there are many students who thrive in an online environment and perhaps even learn more than they would in a traditional classroom. Online education definitely has it’s place (and is growing rapidly) but is not for everyone.
About the Author
Jamie Weitl is a WAHM teaching for several online universities and raising three precocious little ones. In her spare time she enjoys writing, baking, and running. For more info, see my Google Plus Profile.
