by R. Cunningham

Created on: May 13, 2009   Last Updated: May 14, 2009

Online education is the wave of the future. This type of learning provides so many advantages, it could quite possibly replace classroom learning one day in the future. I recently graduated from one of the nation's top universities and I would not have been able to accomplish that goal if that university not had an online format. Since my own personal experience was so positive, I would recommend attending college online to anyone looking to obtain a degree, but lacking the time commitment if often takes to obtain that same degree in a traditional college environment. Online learning provides a stimulating learning environment, a flexible schedule and, typically, a lower cost than traditional colleges.

For me, online learning was the best option. I tried the traditional classroom method at first, but found that class times and locations interfered with my full time job. I dropped out, afraid that I would never accomplish the goal of obtaining my college degree, until a friend recommended online learning. The college I picked was a perfect fit for me. It was structured and fast paced, which fit with my personality, but did not require specific meeting times, so I was able to hold a full time career without my schoolwork interfering.

When I signed up with my online university, I expected that after a lot of hard work, I would receive my degree in two and a half years. What I did not expect was how deeply the nature of the classes touched my life and opened my eyes to the world. The online format is very challenging, but with the help of fellow (virtual) classmates, professors, and assistants, a thought-provoking and stimulating environment is produced, expanding the learning experience far beyond the traditional classroom. The product of this enriched learning environment is a truly eye opening and life altering experience, one that might not always be accomplished through a traditional classroom.

However, there are certain factors that prospective students must consider before enrolling in an online program. The most important is finding out if the school is accredited. There are many makeshift universities out there that offer poor quality of education, so watch out for those. If the school is a name you have heard of before, it's safe to say that they are accredited; however, this is not always the case. Another factor is the time constraints of that particular school. Each school is set up differently. Some online schools have rigid due dates and schedules or certain scheduled times where classmates meet up on a chat room-like forum to discuss the class work, while others are environments which allow learning at your own pace. Figure out which is right for you and your schedule before committing to something that does not work in your life. The last tip is to commit to your education. Online education is challenging, but is also very rewarding if you commit to it. Get all you can out of the experience, because the experience gained online, although very different from that of a traditional classroom, is extremely worthwhile.

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