Guest Author - Cheryl Lynne Likins, M.A.

The worldwide web, the internet, has opened previously closed doors to many people who otherwise would not have been able to continue their education. Many public and private schools now offer some form of distance learning.

Degree Programs

A variety of degree and certificate programs may be completed online, ranging from associates through doctoral level studies. Depending on the program, a residential component may be required. However, the requirement is typically limited to a certain number of hours. Residencies serve to provide a live, interactive experience for students and to facilitate the completion of their work that cannot be done online.


Learning Platforms

Students will encounter a variety of learning platforms when taking courses online. E-college, BlackBoard and WebCT are among the most commonly used. Some schools use video conferencing for a synchronous learning experience. A few institutions have created their own proprietary learning platforms and are responsible for their maintenance. Technology fees are usually assessed when students register for their courses.

Costs

Without the cost of housing required for residential students, taking online courses can certainly be a more affordable option. However, some courses can run about $1800-$2000 for three credits, which is far from a bargain. Less expensive alternatives exist, so students are advised to do their homework before enrolling. Online guides like Peterson’s and the U.S. Department of Education’s website are very helpful and provide useful information about how to choose a school with online courses.


Challenges

With the opportunities created by technological advances come challenges, too. Schools publish their technology requirements for students, so that they can check to see if they have the appropriate computer equipment. This is very important, because without it, students will not be able to complete assessments and otherwise function in their online classroom. This self-assessment should be considered a critical step in the enrollment process.

As with any situation, problems may arise. The website for the classroom may be down for maintenance, Internet service may not be available. Computer issues could prevent the student from completing work. Although these situations are common, they are usually temporary. Faculty and administrators are understanding, to a degree, about these setbacks, because they themselves encounter them. The best approach is to not procrastinate, complete work on or ahead of schedule and to have a backup plan in the event there are technology snafus.

Some learners who have been out of school for several years may lack the computer skills required to succeed in online learning. Often, schools require a brief orientation before allowing students to begin their actual coursework. This introductory class enables students to become familiar with the learning platform, as well as upload and download assignments. This is a critical component to online learning, as students will sometimes become frustrated and abandon their studies, because they are not able to keep up with the fast pace of online learning.


Assessments and Academic Integrity

Assessments vary. Some are online tests and quizzes. Others are projects, portfolios, short comprehension checking assignments and formal papers. Students with challenged reading and writing skills may find some online courses to be extremely difficult and frustrating. Online learning by its nature is writing intensive, even if the classroom interaction is via video conferencing. Some institutions offer remedial type courses in reading and mathematics; however, most have online resources to support students with writing papers, completing math assignments and avoiding plagiarism.

Academic integrity in online learning is demanded. If students either inadvertently or deliberately commit plagiarism, they put themselves at risk for disciplinary action. Sanctions may include a failing grade on an assignment or in a course, as well as expulsion for more egregious cases. Again, students are not left alone to grapple with what can sometimes be fairly complex rules about how to properly give credit for sources they have utilized.


Opening Doors

Finally, online learning has provided perhaps one of the few ways that disabled students can continue their education from the comfort of their own homes. They may obtain skills and knowledge to help them become productive and to feel more included in society. Technology in online learning has changed the scope of the way students learn. It has opened previously closed doors to many more learners. This should be viewed as a positive outcome in the evolution of educational technology.


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