For online college students, the unique learning environment is convenient, challenging and stimulating.
[USPRwire, Sun Sep 30 2007] More students are enrolling in online colleges every year, yet some of these students are disappointed when the online experience doesn't work for them. For some students, the unique learning environment is not only convenient, it's challenging and stimulating as well. For others, frustration and disappointment can set in when students realize that they have missed assignments, aren't keeping up with the work or simply aren't equipped to express themselves in an online environment. Students who are considering attending online colleges should think seriously about whether this type of education suits their personal lifestyle and their learning style.
Online Colleges Require Self-Discipline
Students at online colleges won't see their instructors in daily classes, so they will need to pace themselves properly in order to meet deadlines. These deadlines are usually broader than in a traditional school, so if a student can pace himself properly, he will have no problem. For those who tend to procrastinate when they have a substantial length of time for completing a project, it may be an unpleasant surprise to suddenly realize that two weeks have passed and they haven't started their assignment. Discipline is essential to pacing yourself properly and meeting all instructor deadlines, even when no one else is checking your progress.
Online Courses Require Good Communications Skills
Online classes tend to be writing-intensive. Since students cannot be graded for class participation and can't verbally answer questions from the instructor, the written word is essential. Students must feel comfortable with expressing their thoughts using the written word. Students also need the self-awareness to know when they are struggling, and they need to be able to ask for help by email. The instructor will not see a look of confusion and can't answer questions in class, so students must be pro-active and make use of the written word to get the answers they need.
Computer Access is a Must
Students don't have to be computer experts to take courses through online colleges, but they do need to be familiar enough with common software packages such as Word to write assignments. Familiarity with the Internet, email and how to log onto your classes is also a must. If students don't have their own computer with Internet access, they may have difficulty completing their assignments on time. For this reason it would be difficult for students taking courses at online colleges to be successful if they have to rely on computer access at libraries or through friends. Visit http://www.vconline.edu for more information.
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