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It is evident that a tremendous amount of change has occurred in education since online courses were first introduced. Without online courses, students would be restricted to the traditional classroom, onsite courses, which meet at specific times, on specific days. Although online courses aren’t for everyone, students who prefer this format say that it has allowed them to access an education that might not have been possible, otherwise. Many students say that they have to work during the times that their courses are usually offered, or they are homebound for a number of reasons. Because online courses have become so popular, it has caused colleges and universities to rethink the way that they offer instruction. As a result, many colleges and universities have significantly increased the number of online courses over the last five years.
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Online courses have many qualities that make them desirable, although they are not for everyone. They are convenient. If the weather is inclement, you don’t have to leave your home. And, you can study as early or as late as you’d like; some students prefer working at 3:00 A.M. Many single parents find this method of instruction more economical. They save a lot of money by not having to use daycare services which can be very expensive. Also, online courses allow students to learn at a rate that’s comfortable for them. Some students may need more or less time to complete assignments. Online courses are more flexible with the amount of time needed for course work.
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For years, some students have been home-schooled for their entire K-12 education. Many thought that the quality of education would suffer if students weren’t attending school everyday, five days a week. But, this isn’t so. Studies have shown that home-schooled children are doing very well in post-secondary institutions and are keeping up or doing better than traditionally schooled children. Online courses, like home-schooling, are sharing similar results. Many students learn just as effectively at home as those students who attend structured courses on campus. Also like home-schooled students, online students can create their own schedules. Unlike home-schooled children, students who take online courses, will be expected to interact with other students in the courses. And, instead of talking and listening to your instructor and fellow students, they will be typing and reading. Finally, a significant difference is the discipline required for online courses. Online students don’t have anyone reminding them to do their work; it’s very easy for students who aren’t self directed and motivated to slip behind.
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Enrolling in online classes is very easy when you follow several easy steps. First, you need to complete the Admissions Form, which may be done online. Second, you will need to submit
METHODS OF ORG. chapter opener material (continUED)
ACT or SAT scores; or, you will be required to take a Placement Test. If you need to take a Placement Test, it will be necessary to take the test on campus. Third, you will need to connect with a counselor, which can be done online, or in person. He or she will access your test scores and Admissions Form, and will help you to select appropriate courses. The counselor will also create a college plan for you, so you will have an outline of your required classes. The college will assist you in creating achievable goals. Fourth, once you have “met” with a counselor, you are able to register for your courses through the college’s Web program. Finally, the college will email verification of courses and payment to you. Your verification will also include an invitation to attend an orientation, which is optional.
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For students who are self-directed, there are many advantages to taking online courses. First, they are very convenient. You can establish your own schedule for most of the course work. Second, you don’t have to worry about inclement weather. If it is snowing or raining, you don’t have to leave the comfort of your home. Third, you don’t have to worry about parking your car on campus, which means that you save money by not having to purchase a parking permit or extra gasoline. Finally, many students say that they don’t feel as inhibited and tend to ask more questions. As a result, these students say that they develop more meaningful relationships with online instructors and feel more engaged in the learning process.
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An online course is a course that is taught completely via the Internet with definite start and end dates. It can be taken “anytime, anyplace.” It is not meant to be an independent study class though. It is a course option that provides students who may not otherwise be able to come to campus to take courses or who find on-campus courses inconvenient due to work and family schedules.
