Many people who have never taken a class online debate whether or not they would be academically successful in the eLearning environment. Fortunately, online classes have changed dramatically in the last few years and I can confidently say that most people would be just as successful in an online course as they would be in a face-to-face course. Here are a few issues that most new online students tend to worry about:
Will I have to spend money to upgrade my computer or software to run the course?
In most cases, if your computer is running a recent version (or even the previous version) of either Internet Explorer, Firefox, or Google Chrome, you won’t need to spend any money upgrading your computer. Most courses are designed to operate on multiple Internet browsers and require only the most basic software. In some cases, depending on the course, you may need to purchase specific software – this is often the case if you’re taking programs in graphic design, engineering, or other technical based subject areas. Some colleges require you to purchase the most recent version of Microsoft Office. However, both Open Office and Google Docs offer the same office-type programs for free – and they are completely compatible (for 95% of most operations) with all of the Microsoft Office core programs including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
Will I receive less support from the instructor because they won’t see me?
Based upon my experience as both a face-to-face instructor and an online instructor, as well as, experience as a student in both environments, you will actually receive more attention from the instructor in the online environment. In the online environment you can email your instructor 24/7 with a question or concern through the courses built in messaging system – and you don’t have to worry about asking your question in front of all the other students. In addition, most colleges require their instructors to respond to the student within 24 hours of the query. Finally, although this doesn’t happen often, if you have a dispute regarding your performance or you interactions with the instructor or members of student teams you have an permanent record to help resolve any issues. Many courses also offer you the ability to access online tutorials, course facilitators, librarians, and other resources any time of the day or night.
What about interacting with other students – I don’t want to share my email or phone number.
Many online courses require students to participate in team activities. You have the right to decide whether or not you want to share your personal email and phone number with other students – you don’t have to share them if you don’t want to and can request that all communication between the team members be conducted through the online messaging system. Most colleges prefer you conduct all your communication in this manner – it supports the college’s efforts in resolving issues if they have easy access to team communication records. I recently completed my Master’s Degree program online. Every course required work with a virtual team. I never shared my personal email or phone with any of my team members; consequently, every team experience was successful and enjoyable.
If you’re still not sure an online course is for you… take an inexpensive course to test the waters. You can even take an actual course for free through many colleges and universities. You won’t receive credit for the course unless you pay for it but it will give you a feel for the online learning environment.
You can sign up for online courses through Corporate & Continuing Education at Clark College by simply going to our website. See you in class…
