A Virtual Web of Opportunity
As the technology of the Internet and the World Wide Web expands
by leaps and bounds, it has brought amazing opportunities for those
who are willing to walk through the vast futuristic portal of online
education. Buzz words like streaming video, virtual classrooms,
whiteboard technology, and multimedia presentations describe only
a few of the emerging innovations that are defining the direction
of online education. Without leaving home or quitting a job, it
is now possible - via computer - to complete the coursework necessary
to boost one’s earning power in any number of specialized
fields.
Armed with a career-related professional certificate
or a higher college degree from an accredited online school, thousands
of students have gained a competitive edge in an already difficult
job market. Job promotions and advancement are often the fruit of
pursuing supplemental education and training; and the almost limitless
choices in online courses, professional certificate programs and
degree offerings provide a virtual educational smorgasbord of paths
to follow.
When you enroll in online courses, it is generally
possible to study at your own pace - when you have the time, rather
than being locked into inconvenient class schedules. Also, with
online courses, feedback from instructors is usually prompt via
e-mail or other technologies. A sample of popular subject areas
for study includes: information technology, business and management,
computer science, accounting and finance, education, criminal justice,
engineering, nursing and healthcare, paralegal studies, psychology,
theology, creative writing, and fashion and design.
Background of Online Education
Before online education became mainstream, distance
learning existed primarily through correspondence courses. (Distance
learning refers to education in which the instructor and student
are geographically separated.) The correspondence method has sufficed
since the mid-1830’s; but in the last 35 years, internet and
computer technology have combined to create a boom in the field
of online education. And each year, numerous traditional colleges
and universities add their names to the roster of accredited online
schools. Reasons for Choosing Online Education
For some students, online education is the only
viable choice. These students include:
- Full time employees who cannot take time off from work to attend
school.
- The unemployed who need to improve their qualifications in
order to be hired.
- Homemakers who are raising children.
- Caretakers of someone who is homebound.
- Active duty military personnel stationed overseas.
- Disabled students who face physical challenges in maneuvering
around a campus.
- Home school students seeking to supplement their education.
To these and many others, online education has
brought new freedom and turned unfulfilled dreams into reality.
Tools Needed for Online Education
With just a few necessary tools - including a computer, an internet
connection, and word processing software - the journey is ready
to begin. Optional tools for more specialized coursework may include
a high speed internet connection and additional software.
Where to Find a School
Once the field of study has been chosen, there are a number of
ways to find the corresponding online educational program.
- Check with local community colleges and universities to find
which online courses are offered.
- Utilize the internet to access web pages that focus on accredited
online schools.
- Visit the local library and check their resource section.
- Seek information in your local or online bookstore. Be careful
that the listed online schools are accredited by the proper accreditation
authorities.
Summary
Online education is the fast-growing, explosive
new future of distance learning. It gives many students the ability
to acquire the necessary credentials to promote success in their
careers, and to increase their earning potential. It provides flexibility,
fosters the building of computer skills, provides an unfathomable
array of choices, and saves money on transportation and college
housing costs. For those who are motivated, self-disciplined and
willing to enjoy the benefits of online education, there is no need
to wait another day. Step through the portal and into the future
. . . your future.
By Vida Lynne Olivier
Copyright 2006. All Rights Reserved. |
