Are Online Classes for You?

Are online classes for you?  That’s a question that only you can answer, but I can share some thoughts and ideas that may help you make up your mind about that option.

You see, I teach online credit classes for two local community colleges.  Each semester, my classes begin relatively full, and every semester, I have at some five or six out of twenty fade away during the semester.  Why do they fade away?  Am I boring?  Are my classes too hard?  I don’t think either of those are the reasons, although I can’t say that I’m snazzy online, I’m thorough and methodical.  I do know that my classes aren’t too hard.  The reason those students fade away is that the online environment is not for them.

An online student needs to be organized:  You do not need to be the most organized individual, but you need to be organized enough that you meet deadlines.  You have to be able to keep track of assignments and be aware of due dates without an instructor reminding you.

An online student needs to be independent:  If you are rather shy, an online class may be for you.  Online classes allow students to plan their responses.  There’s not speaking in front of people off the cuff.  Social people can do well in online classes too, but if you’re the type who needs face to face social interaction and immediate feedback from the instructor, online classes may not be right for you. 

An online student needs to be motivated:  If you need someone to stand over you and constantly remind you that assignments are due, online learning is not for you.  But if you are one to complete tasks that are assigned to you independently and without reminders, then online learning works very well.

An online student needs to be comfortable with computers.  You do not need to be an expert, but you need to be comfortable using computers, the Internet and basic software and willing to try new things on your own.  If you barely know how to turn on a PC and are anxious every time you try something new, consider a traditional course instead.

Online learning isn’t the same as being in a classroom, but it does offer an equally good education if it comes from an accredited institution.  In fact, online learning requires more of students in terms of independent study because the student needs to read and study on his own a lot more than one who attends a class and gets to hear the instructor speak.

Online learning is wonderful for those with full lives and erratic schedules provided that they can meet the requirements I mentioned above.  Many of my students are nurses who work nights, people who travel frequently for work, and even parents of young children who can’t afford babysitting and tuition.  My students come from all walks of life – that’s the beauty of online learning.  So, are online classes for you?

Did I leave anything out?  Leave me know in the comments section below.