Distance Learning 101

In my opinion, I think online distance learning is a better choice for several reasons. I chose to pursue my Associates degree through Axia College of the University of Phoenix. I think it was the best career choice I ever made! Why do I feel so strongly about distance learning? It is simple. Distance learning is giving me a chance to better myself without stepping away from the responsibilities that I have to my family at home. If the choice for an online education was not an option, I would not be able to further my education at this time.

Another reason why I feel online learning is a great alternative to traditional college is that there is little need for the instructor to repeat his or herself in distance learning. They write out the directions either in a personal email, or in a forum for everyone to see. This is convenient for the instructor and the student because the student can re-read it as many times as they wish.

There are also several ways given for us to communicate such as email, message board, and telephone if needed. Online learning also eliminates the issue of having to make appointments or having to wait until the next class session to speak. A student can reach a professor across the state or across the country with questions just by clicking the send button on an email, or pick up the telephone for more urgent concerns.

Online learning also helps students to develop social skills without the pressure of "looking a certain way" or being judged on how you speak or act. Classmates are less likely to form an opinion about you based on superficial things.

Another extraordinary reason online education are better: They cost less; Far less. By the time I graduate, I will have earned 60 college credit hours. By the time I graduate, 60 college credits will cost about $7,000. I compared this with a local university campus, and their cost for the same degree was double. For this $7,000, I get a whole team of experts that keep in touch with me, helping me succeed! I get a weekly phone call from my enrollment counselor to make sure I am still on the right track. I also have my very own tutor that helps me with any homework questions I may have. What other university supplies this?

There is one downside to online learning that should be brought to every potential student's attention. If the student is not familiar with computers or with computer etiquette otherwise known as "netiquette", one should become more familiar before considering an online education option.

In a distance-learning environment I think it is vital to choose words very carefully since the peer receiving the feedback cannot see body language and hear the tone of voice being expressed in words. For example, if we write in all caps, this suggests that we are yelling. This is not conveying a positive response. We should try at all times to convey a positive response in our words. We now have "emoticons" to help a little with the breakage of body language although we should not overuse them, and even in some situations they are not appropriate.

Here is a list of questions I compiled to help with the decision process. answering each one of these questions is vital to making the right decision:

How much money do I have to make an education happen?

Am I eligible for student loans?

Can I work independently to complete assignments, or do I need more structure?

Am I familiar with how a computer works in case something technical happens?

Do I need to learn proper computer etiquette?

When it comes down to making the final decision, only the student can decide what the best learning environment is for them. Choose the options carefully, and outweigh the positive with the negative points. The most important thing is whatever is decided, that the student does their best, and that the student is learning.