What you Need to Know
Congratulations on deciding
to join the online education community. This will be a new way
of educating yourself -- online!
Distance learning is a convenient
and suitable option to advance your career and/or education. Accredited
online courses still offer many of the same features as in-class
courses; and they meet the same high standards and expectations
as traditional classes. Professors are often employed both on the
university campus and online. Online education gives you the quality
instruction of campus universities and the convenience of studying
at home.
We have compiled a list of tips for the new online
student.
Choosing your School
Choosing a school can be
a daunting task. There are numerous online courses out there and
many factors to consider.
Directory of Schools provides an easy
school search based on educational needs. Simply select the degree
or certification program you want; and a list of schools meeting
your criteria will come up. After this list appears, select a school
and fill out your contact information. Then answer a few questions
about your level of education.
We recommend applying to several
different schools on this list in order to compare your options
and make the best decision regarding your education needs. After
filling out your contact information, a counselor from the schools
of your choice will contact you to answer all of your questions
about the courses and any financial assistance you may require.
The counselor will also help you to begin the enrollment process.
You may also contact Directory
of Schools directly
with your degree or course requirement; and someone will help guide
you through this process.
Financial Aid
You may be wondering how
you will pay for an online degree – but don’t worry!
Fortunately there are many financial
aid options available. Often,
the online university will offer a financial assistance program
or will provide financing directly through their school. Directory
of Schools also offers a financial aid guide which has links to
resources, financial aid and scholarships.
Create your Classroom
Find a spot in your home
that is conducive to studying for your online course. When choosing
this area, keep the following things in mind:
- You will
need adequate space for your computer, peripherals, books and
school supplies. You will want a space that is quiet and in which
you can focus.
- If you decide to use multiple computers,
keep a backpack or bag that contains your supplies and books.
- It is also a good idea to have a main computer that you can
store your assignments on and which will hold a back up of your
files.
If you can’t do this, be sure to buy blank disks on which
to store your work. Keep them with your supplies.
Here is a common
list of supplies you will need.
- Pad of paper to jot down notes
and reminders
- Pens and a highlighter
- Blank disks
Remember
to keep yourself organized. Create a folder on your computer in
which to store your school work and information.
Equipment
It is
crucial to have the right computer and equipment before you begin
an online course. Find the computer requirements document on your
university web site. Make sure that your computer meets those requirements
and that you have all necessary equipment. Your online school counselor
should be able to verify this information for you and answer any
questions.
Most colleges provide the software you will need
as a download from their technical support page. Once you have
verified the necessary software and have downloaded it, make sure
that everything works together before you start. Technical assistance
is available from the software manufacture and possibility from
the university.
Become Acquainted with your School
Just like a
campus university, becoming familiar with your online university
is important. Check out the school’s website and bookmark pages -- such as the
technical assistance page, the login page, the FAQ page, the business
department, the financial aid department, the advising department
and any other web pages of value.
Most schools require a login
and password. These allow you to access features available only
to students. It is important to locate this information and familiarize
yourself with the course logins prior to the beginning of classes.
Explore and become familiar with these pages ahead of time. This
will save you time and frustration.
Make sure you have pertinent
school contact information on hand-- phone numbers, emails and
the help desk -- just in case you are not able to access the internet,
or you need an immediate answer to your questions.
Get your Books!!
Login to your school’s website and go to the bookstore. It
is important to find out what books you will need ahead of time
and purchase them at least 3 weeks before your first class begins.
Books can take up to 2 weeks to be delivered; but the average delivery
time is 10 days. When you speak with your counselor, ask how long
it takes for delivery of books. Or, if possible, email the college
book store directly. When you choose your courses with your counselor,
you may also find out what books you will need.
Prepare for your
Online Course
Like a traditional classroom setting, you will
need to prepare for your online courses. Find and review the syllabus.
Spending some time reviewing your coursework will reveal what you
will study, the type of assignments you will be expected to prepare,
the amount of reading materials and the professor's expectations.
This will also allow you to estimate how much time you will need
to put aside daily, weekly and monthly for your school work. Preparing
a schedule for yourself and balancing school work, regular work,
and downtime will allow you to get the most out of online schooling
without burnout.
By J. B. Schallert
Copyright 2008. All Rights Reserved. |
