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Should I take online courses?

 

Ultimately that is something each student must decide for themselves. Online courses are completly asnycronous, which means there are no set times when you must be in class. All homework and lectures are posted to be done when you see fit, though there will be deadlines for assignements. Online courses tend to require more time management. An article from Rasmussen Unviersity titled "What I Wish Someone Told Me Before Taking Online Classes" lists the following seven things that might help you decide if online courses are right for you:

  1. Online classes are not the "easy" route
    • Though they offer more flexibility they still require the same amount of work and effort. 
  2. You may actually do better in an online class
    • If you are organized the control over your studing might benefit you. The ability to pause lectures and take better notes can be really helpful.
  3. You're going to need technology and IT support to be sucessful
    • Having a personal computer and reliabe internet access is key for sucess. 
  4. You can make it or break it with time management
    • Many students underestimate the amount of time they’ll spend studying for class. It’s your responsibility to take the initiative to keep up with your work when enrolled in online classes.
  5. Don't think your exempt from group projects
    • With collaborative tools and video conferencing options making it easier for groups to work together, don’t be surprised if you find yourself assigned to a group project in your online course.
  6. You’ll want to make an effort to make connections
    • Unlike in person classes where you are surrounded my your classmates, you'll have to put in a real effort to actually make connections. 
  7. Online classes could be the missing piece
    • Taking online classes does have a convience factor. Time is saved without having to drive to and from class and all the distractions a classroom brings. 

The SUNY Ulster Blog also has a post titled "5 Tips for Suceeding In Online Courses" which offers these tips:

  1. Plan Ahead
  2. Understand the Course Website
  3. Purchase (And Use) All Required Outside Materials
  4. Keep an Orderly Study Space
  5. Check All Work