by Michelle Powers

Created on: August 26, 2007

Axia College also known as Phoenix online is a distance learning program. That means that I am not in a traditional face to face classroom I participle by asynchronous communication. Asynchronous communication is commutation that is between two different parties but not at the same time; for example email! I will be honest I was a little nervous at first on how everything works.

Axia works hard to make sure you feel like part of a classroom by providing different tools. For example, each student is given a college email so when you login to your classroom you are given the opportunity to chat directly with just one student if you would like. Students who are in the same class are able to give me feedback by using forums the professor or even another student has set-up. By using the forums we are able to have threaded discussions which makes keeping track of what is being said really easy. It also allows there to be a written record of everything said so if you forget a point someone was trying to make you can look back and see. I am a visual learner so this is a really great tool for me!

Another aspect that I really enjoy is all of my academic materials are online so I can participate in class from anywhere. I really suggest Axia if you have a schedule that is hectic or unpredictable. Axia College has allowed me to continue to work at a rape crisis center, which you never know what your schedule will look like, and continue my education at the same time. I really like the fact I don't have to choose between my career, work and family; I am given the flexibility to participate in all three.

I also really love that I am given opportunities just to chat with my professors. Axia really works hard on making sure I feel connected. My academic advisor, financial advisor and enrollment counselor make an effort to check in with me on a regular basis. I have called with questions on several different topics and I get an answer the same day; that is unheard of in a traditional face to face learning environment. I eventually plan on getting my bachelors in Human Services or Social Work and I feel as though Axia will help my reach those goals!

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