Online learning is now a viable way to earn a degree, as more programs earn accreditation from recognized accreditors.
Online learning has become a popular method of delivery, particularly at the college level. In its previous life, online learning was presented as a correspondence course or “distance learning”, in which the participant would receive a bunch of videotapes and complete assignments to be sent to the instructor via snail mail. Sometimes, part of the course was completed in person. With the advent of the Internet, classes evolved into an online format, combined often with a video or in-person format. Now, courses are completely online, but these courses have only recently become more polished, resembling their “on-ground” cousins in content and rigor. Initially, one could only receive a graduate degree online, but now many undergraduate programs have appeared, garnering accreditation, and doctorate programs as well (although residencies still are conducted in person).
Education programs are immensely popular in the online format. Many universities offer online degrees in Educational Leadership, Special Education, and Reading. These courses follow a fairly universal format using a direct instruction method. Students either buy a textbook or subscribe to a university e-textbook service. They are assigned to a class section with a (hopefully) qualified instructor (usually has a masters or above and is a practitioner in the area). The class format consists of the following: a discussion board or newsgroup, in which participants are to answer discussion questions and interact with classmates; a module for each week which details the week’s assignments; a group learning area in which the participants work on group projects; a series of lectures which outline the content for the week’s objectives. The requirements are as follows: a weekly paper; a weekly reflection piece; a certain amount of participation and/or attendance; group projects.
There are several advantages to online learning as opposed to on-ground classes:
- One can attend anytime of day, therefore enabling those with families or limited time to attend.
- They are less expensive than on-ground, although this gap is narrowing.
- A student is exposed to other people from all over the world, instead of just those in the same community.
- The online degree is gaining recognition as a viable way to further oneself.
There is, of course, the flipside of online learning versus on-ground:
- A certain amount of self-discipline is required.
- The attention that one might receive from the instructor is limited.
- This can be an isolating way to learn.
- Working in groups online can be very frustrating.
- The coursework may not be acceptable for licensing or employment.
Deciding to continue one’s education is a step that is not to be taken lightly. Examining the pros and cons of both types of deliveries is a wise thing to do. If considering any institution of higher learning, think about these points.
- Check for accreditation by a recognized accrediting agency
- Be certain that your state accepts these classes for licensing
- See if prospective employers will take an online degree seriously; there are still many who do not find online degrees to be valid, even if the university is accredited
See the related blog about teaching online.
