BENEFITS OF TAKING ONLINE CLASSES
- Flexible scheduling. When you take traditional college classes, you are at the mercy of a schedule of class times. If your class is scheduled to meet Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 10 to 11 a.m., that’s when you need to be there. In contrast, most online class options leave the scheduling up to individual students. So, if the time that works best for you to view your class lecture is 9 p.m. on a Sunday, you can do so — and still have access to the same information your peers viewed earlier in the day.
- Location flexibility. Technology also has made it possible to attend classes from almost anywhere in the world. Whether you are across town or across the country from your college campus, you can complete your required coursework as long as you have an Internet connection.
- More affordable option. Online degree programs are often more economical than traditional programs, simply because you don’t have to pay to live on or near campus, or for the costs of commuting (transit passes, gas and parking permits, etc.)
- Accreditation. When online college classes and degree options were initially available in the early 2000s, they were not widely respected. There was a perception that an online degree was somehow a lesser option, as opposed to a “real” college degree. Thankfully, that’s changed. Today, it is possible to earn a respected, accredited degree completely online. Generations College’s online degree programs are fully accredited, so you can be confident in your ability to put your degree to work after graduation.
POTENTIAL DISADVANTAGES OF TAKING ONLINE CLASSES
- Technology requirements. In order to earn your degree online, you must have access to computer equipment that meets the school’s and program’s minimum requirements for online learners. You also need reliable Internet access so you can view and participate in lectures and chat rooms, and submit homework as required.
- Self-discipline and focus. Some students prefer the structure that comes from taking traditional college classes on campus, rather than the more open-ended schedule that is available to online learners. When you commit to taking online classes, you need to have the internal drive and self-discipline to make sure you are meeting and staying on top of course requirements and expectations.
- Interaction takes more effort. Online degree programs also make it more of a challenge for students to interact with their instructors and fellow students. If you choose to pursue online college classes, make a concerted effort to take advantage of your school’s opportunities to engage with other students, faculty and staff. Doing so makes for a more meaningful college experience, so you can get the most out of your degree.
EXPLORE ONLINE DEGREE PROGRAMS AVAILABLE THROUGH GENERATIONS COLLEGE
As you can see, there are many advantages of studying online. Of course, it is important to understand the potential pros and cons before embarking on any type of college degree program. At Generations College in Chicago, we understand flexibility in academics is the key to helping busy adults fulfill dreams of completing their educations.
We are proud to offer online education for motivated students who want to earn their Associate of Science degrees in Business Administration, Court Reporting or Criminal Justice partially — or entirely — online! To learn more about Generations College’s online degree programs, contact us today!