Earning a Degree on Your Own Time - Is Online E-Learning for You?

Online learning, also referred to e-learning or distant learning, is a learning process that occurs within a realm of an online community. Learners are given opportunities to communicate with instructors, engage in collegial conversations, and access extensive learning materials over the internet (Curran, 2004).

Benefits of Online Learning

A wider selection of colleges allows scholars to choose a more specified program of study targeting advancement within their career. How often do you contemplate earning college credits for a possible raise, or to gain a higher-raking position, but cannot find the time? Adult learners no longer have to give up the time away from home and family to further their education.

Online scholars have the freedom and flexibility to learn when and where it’s convenient for them. For some, this means checking into class before leaving for work, on a lunch break, while dinner is cooking in the oven, during sport events, or late at night after time has already been spent with the family. Time in a virtual classroom appears to be better utilized versus the time spent driving to and attending class in a traditional classroom.

The online classroom also sets the stage for a less intimidating learning experience. The obscurity of others’ initial reactions allows those who are apprehensive in a traditional setting to participate more frequently online. This means scholars, regardless of culture, gender, age, speech imparities, and/or insecurities, have equal opportunities to engage in collegial conversations.

Challenges of online learning

Online learning is not ideal for all learners. For some, it’s challenging to thrive without the face-to-face support from colleagues. Online colleagues lack the physical presence and motivation found in a traditional classroom.

Self-motivation and discipline are also needed to thrive in an online learning environment. The flexibility of online learning, without self-motivation and discipline, can lead to a less-than-successful experience. In a recent study of online scholars, the most common challenge revolved around setting a study schedule and staying motivated (Aokyi, Bray & Duglosh, 2008). Online learners must know how to balance their time while carefully monitoring deadlines and expectations.

Conclusion
Student-centered online learning studies have found those whom chose online courses make the decision based on more practical constraints and choices versus consideration of learning attributes and educational modality. (Daily-Herbert, Donnelli, & Mandernach, 2006) There is absolutely no need to sacrifice your education for convenience. Students should consider the benefits and challenges of, while also maintaining high education standards for, online learning opportunities.

Resources

Aokyi, K., Bray, E., & Dlugosh, L. (October-2008). Predictors of Learning Satisfaction
in Japanese Online Distance Learners. International Review of Research in Open and Distance Learning, 9(3), 1492-3831. Retrieved November 18, 2008 from the ERIC database.

Curran, C. (Sept. 2004). Strategies for E-learning in Universities. Research & Occasional Paper Series, CSHE.7.04. Retrieved November 18, 2008 from CSHE database.

Daily-Herbert, A., Donelli, E., & Mandernach, B. (July 2006). Learner Attribute Research Juxtaposed with Online Instructor Experience: Predictors of Success in the Accelerated, Online Classroom. The Journal of Educators Online. 3(2), 1547-500X. Retrieved November 24, 2008.

Elearners.com. (2007). Guide to Online Education. Retrieved November 22, 2008 from the World Wide Web. http://www.elearners.com/guide/how-to-be-a-successful-online-student.pdf