With the recession in full swing, everyone is looking for a way to go to school and hold down a full-time job. This is where the conveniences of the internet come into play. Many schools offer, or specialize in, online degree programs, providing students with up to date curriculums to complete on their own time.
Pros
1. Flexibility. School doesn’t have to interrupt your regular schedule; you can study at your own pace, review material as many times as you want, and no commuting.
2. No textbooks. Most classes, not all, have textbooks available via eBook or eTexts. A lot of schools grant online students access to their online libraries, where they can view any and all material in the campus library.
3. Acquire Professional Skills. Online courses force you to manage your time, be self-motivated, and determined, which are all valuable assets in the workforce.
4. Collaboration. Often times teachers will encourage students to talk online, make study groups using social networks, and force them to hear new ideas from all over the world. This may or may not be possible in a classroom setting.
Cons
1. Non-Accredited Institutions. Make sure your school is accredited. Online degrees from non-accredited school don’t count for much and might be the difference between employment and unemployment.
2. Social Atmosphere. Technology is evolving to change this, but there is no face to face interaction with teachers or fellow students.
3. Home Environment. Do you have kids? Pets? Husband or other family members living with you? This can hinder an independent study. Make sure you have a quiet place to take these courses.
4. Working Alone. In an online course, a teacher isn’t always available for questions. They have specific times when they can be reached, you have to self-motivated and self-disciplined.
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