Monday, June 13, 2016

"Real" Online Learning

Is online learning as "real" as face-to-face learning? I'd say yes, and more so, but it's my preferred learning method. Other people may say that face-to-face learning trumps online learning any day and still others may say that blended learning is the merging of two ingredients like peanut butter and jelly that makes the perfect combination.

As I am writing this, I recall a conversation I had not too long ago with another mom. She's planning to go back to school when her youngest starts kindergarten this fall. She was telling me that there's a program only about an hour away, but she didn't know if she'd want to commit to that. Of course, I said that she didn't have to that she could probably do some classes online. I was surprised that she thought employers would look at online learning as a "fake" degree.

Although online learning is different, it's not fake. It is very real and just as you can zone out in face-to-face classes, you can also lurk in online classes. Basically, you get into what you put into it - which could be a lot or it could be very little. It depends on your investment.

That brings me to another point though - not all online programs are created equally and you definitely should research the programs! Some programs are cost-efficient, where others will try and make a profit. Don't be caught in a dangerous trap, do your research!

So now that we've covered that online learning is real, but different and to research your investment, what other items are key in online learning? First, is motivation. Remember you get out what you put in. Try and stay motivated! Have a plan - and stick to it.

Having a plan and sticking to it can be easier said than done. How many times do you commit to moving more and eating less on January 1 to have it all crumble into a pile of cake crumbs by January 15th? The same is true for online learning - sticking to the plan will be hard, but try - and the best way to do that is to find someone who will hold you accountable. 

Now that you're motivated, have a plan, and have an accountability partner, you're ready to start online learning. Students who start strong in a course, finish the course! Here at Kirkwood HSDL we say try to spend two hours per day in your class most days per week (as in treat it just like a regular face-to-face course). Let us know what you do to stay motivated in your online courses.

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