by Melinda Clayton

Created on: February 28, 2008

Online universities are truly the wave of the future. What could be better than obtaining a degree while still in your bathrobe? When I graduated with a bachelor's degree in 1989, online universities were virtually unheard of. In the 21st century, that's all changed. The variety of quality online universities has exploded in recent years, and more and more people are furthering their education and their marketability through distance learning. The flexibility and convenience of these programs make online learning attainable for nearly everyone. Just recently, I began attenting an online university to further my own education, and have found it to be a wonderful experience. By following these four simple guidelines, you, too, can ensure that you will have a productive and fulfilling distance learning experience:

1. Research your options before making a commitment. Make sure that you'll be able to obtain the qualifications you desire from the school you attend. Is the school accredited? Although many online programs may appear to offer the courses you need, if it isn't accredited, your degree won't be worth the cost of the paper on which it's printed. Research the school's credentials, history, and graduation rate, as well as the financial aid options they offer. Many websites are devoted exclusively to rating and ranking online universities, and these websites can easily be found by typing "online universities" into any search engine.

2. Manage your time wisely. It's easy to let things slide when you're able to complete exams and research assignments while sitting in your pajamas in front of a computer. The key to making the most of your distance learning experience is to manage it in much the same way you would if you were attending a traditional campus school. Pick a specific time each day to work on assignments, and pencil in the amount of time you plan to study. Set your own deadlines for assignment completion and adhere to them. Because you won't have a professor keeping tabs on your attendance and attention span, you'll have to do this for yourself. As tempting as it is to skip your study time in favor of your favorite television show, to do so will only result in falling behind in your assignments and grades.

3. Stay organized. Keep your work space organized and free of clutter and distractions. Have close at hand all of the materials you need. Do not allow interruptions during your study time - no phone, Ipod, or T.V. These things would not be allowed in an on-campus classroom, and in order to get the most out of your online learning experience, you must not allow them in your study space.

4. Communicate with your distance school frequently. Email or phone your professor regularly. Check into message boards and chat rooms offered by your school. Not only will you be able to share valuable information, you will also be networking and forming potentially valuable connections.

By following these four easy guidelines, you will be able to get the most out of your online experience while at the same time furthering your education and your career, all in the comfort of your own home.

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