Online College Classes: Are they Worth It?
Once the Internet became easily accessible to people throughout the country, more and more universities began offering online options to its students. These days, there are universities that are fully online.
However, they don't always carry the same reputation as traditional on-campus classes do. This is a shame since online college classes are a perfectly viable alternative to traditional on-campus classes. In fact, taking college classes online can offer numerous advantages over attending class in person for many students.
Online classes offer more schedule flexibility
Traditional colleges have a set schedule for their classes. Either you show up on time or you miss out. Online classes allow you take the class at your convenience. This is incredibly helpful for students who have other responsibilities in their lives.
For example, students who are working full time or who are raising a family. Going to class is most likely not an option for them, but being able to take classes online at night -- or whenever best suits their schedule - allows them to continue their education.
Online classes can be taken from the comfort of home
For many people, traditional classroom environments are uncomfortable. This may be especially true if you are uncomfortable around strangers and being amongst dozens of other students makes it more difficult for you to concentrate. Being able to take classes from the comfort of your own home may make it easier for you to learn the material and to get the most out of the classes you're paying for.
Online classes don't require you to commute
Commuting not only costs money, it takes up valuable time. Not everyone has the time to drive to class or to take public transportation to class. Some students may simply live too far away from the university for this to be feasible in the first place. Online classes eliminate the need to commute, allowing you to make much better use of your time.
Online classes provide an opportunity to advance your career
If you're working a full-time job in an industry that you want to stay in, then taking online classes can be an excellent way to fast track your career. Taking online classes at your own pace may allow you to learn important skills and to earn degrees that can help you take the next step in your career - all without having to quit your job. No losing the progress you may have already made (especially if you're attempting to work your way up at the company you're currently working for).
Online classes make it more difficult to fall behind
Missing class at a traditional university is easy to do. For example, if you're working and can't reschedule your hours, you fall sick and can't make it out of your home, or there's a family emergency requiring you to skip class.
Unfortunately, if you miss class at a traditional school, it will be easy to fall behind. If you're taking online classes, you can easily catch up by simply taking your online courses later when you find the time to do so. Teachers are also good with sending updates and notices when work is missed and checking in on you if you appear to be having a rough time.
Online classes allow for more engagement
You might think that going to class allows for more engagement since you'll be there in person, but this isn't necessarily true. Many classes are too big for every student to be able to engage with the teacher. Additionally, students who are shy or find it difficult to be around strangers may feel more comfortable participating online than they would in a classroom full of people.
These are some of the advantages of taking online classes instead of going to class in person. For many students, their life situations do not allow them to attend college. For them, online classes are the perfect solution for continuing their education and for advancing their careers.
Are you looking to take classes on your own terms? If you want to get your education online, your way, consider ECPI University’s online campus to suit your needs. For more information on classes and options, connect with a friendly admissions counselor today.
It could be the Best Decision You Ever Make!
For more information about ECPI University or any of our programs click here: http://www.ecpi.edu/ or http://ow.ly/Ca1ya.