Online education is growing exponentially. Students can get overwhelmed with the choices. Below are important information to know so you can choose which online course is for you.
School Accreditation
A safe option is to go with regionally accredited school so you can easily transfer your earned credits to another school if need be.
This puts online and traditional learning on an even playing field. The evaluation of the degree is compared to other similar offline degree programs – it’s apples-to-apples.
Personal Learning Style
Keep in mind the delivery time as well as your own personal learning preferences. Synchronous online course is like traditional learning where students log in and participate with each other at the same time. This is more like being in a classroom and having a discussion. On the other hand, asynchronous coursework is different, you will rely more on message boards, forums and posting where you can jump in anytime to finish your work. This is suited for those who want more flexibility.
Cost and Time Commitment
Inquire with the online course provider if there are other fees or costs associated with the program.
Also ask if there is an on-campus requirement. Online classes doesn’t necessarily mean out of campus all the time.
Most of the time, taking an online course will be cheaper but do check as sometimes it can be more expensive.
Support Services
You’ll spend most of the online so you can’t run to the campus bookstore or the financial aid office. Note how readily available and accessible such services are to online learners.
Professors
Despite not seeing them face-to-face, knowing your professor will help. They are mostly your link to the school so make sure that they are willing to assist you above and beyond the classroom.
For ACP’s online course services, click here.
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