by Karen Lawson

Created on: February 04, 2009   Last Updated: February 17, 2009

Online college courses and degree programs provide flexible scheduling for busy adults with work and family responsibilities, and provide access to and degrees not offered by local career schools, colleges and universities. If you're considering taking online courses, here are a few things to think about.

No need for technical expertise: If you're comfortable using the Internet and e-mail, you'll probably do well with online courses. Colleges offering e-learning make every effort to ensure a learning experience online.

You'll need to focus: If you're taking college courses online, don't expect any breaks. Course content will be equally as challenging as traditional classroom courses. It's easy to be distracted by web-surfing, e-mail, and messaging, but you'll want to avoid distractions when doing coursework.

Technical and academic help is available: Most online learning platforms are easy to use and provide quick access to technical support. Instructors expect questions, and quickly reply to e-mail. Instructors may also schedule individual and group chat sessions online. and you can also contact fellow students for help.

Scheduling: You can study when you want to, but you may be tempted to procrastinate. It's important to set specific times for studying. Ask the cooperation of family and friends for avoiding interruptions. Online courses require the same level of preparation as traditional courses; instructors can set deadlines for assignments. You can expect to spend about two hours of weekly preparation time for each credit hour. For a three credit course, this adds up to six hours a week.

Class participation: If you're shy or dislike making presentations, you may prefer online classes. On the other hand, communicating and working with instructors and colleagues is a significant part of the college experience. Your instructor may schedule chat sessions and/or group assignments that facilitate interacting with your cyber classmates.

Taking exams: Online courses may require you to take proctored exams. This means that you'll take exams on campus or other specified location.

Depending on your major and career goals, academic counselors at your school can help you design a degree program that includes online courses.

Learn more about this author, Karen Lawson.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.