The ability to get an affordable, top-drawer education online is a dream come true for adults juggling jobs, families and a million other responsibilities. It may seem like a no-brainer to just apply and get started but going to school online is a different animal. Here are a few things you should know before taking that first step toward an online degree:
- You create your own schedule. Most of what you learn online is the same as in a classroom. What’s different is that there’s no set schedule or reminders telling you it’s time to study. This flexibility is one of the main benefits of pursuing a degree online and most people love it. The key is having the discipline to keep up and complete your assignments each week.
- You need to be comfortable with current technology. You’re going to be on your computer a lot. At a minimum, you should know basic programs, how to install software, how to use a webcam and how to troubleshoot minor computer problems. At Tiffin University, you’ll also use online resources to make learning easier, including the Moodle learning management system, Pfeiffer Library and free access to Grammarly.
- You’ll be on your own a lot. Obviously, when you study online, you don’t have as much interaction with people as you would in a physical classroom. But you won’t be completely alone either. At TU, for example, you can join online study groups and forums, and contact your instructors and classmates via phone, email and chat.
- Attendance matters. Your instructors may not see you sitting in class each week, but they still want to know you’re participating and able to graduate on time. TU tracks attendance based on the discussions or assignments you submit each week.
There are many advantages to getting a degree online. If you’re self-motivated, open to new ways of learning and ready to take on an exciting new challenge, it could be your most rewarding move yet.