As technology makes its way further into college classrooms, online learning is gaining popularity. More and more people are choosing to take classes entirely online. However, those who have never taken them often have misconceptions about what online courses entail and whether they’re really worthwhile. Learn the truth about online schooling and get informed with this myth-busting list.
There are a lot of myths surrounding online schooling. Rumors that the classes are easy, financial aid can’t be used, the learning isn’t valuable, it won’t take up your time and credits won’t transfer are at the top of the list. Read the full article to see all these myths debunked.
Read on to Learn Why These Myths Are Not True
1. Online Classes are Easy Compared to Regular Classes
This fact might be partially true depending on your learning preferences, but you shouldn’t go into an online class expecting that you won’t have to work. You need to be able to self-motivate and meet specific deadlines in order to succeed. Ultimately, you will probably do just as much work in an online class as in a sit-down class. If you’re okay with it, but you just prefer to be self-directed, you’re on the right path learning from home.
2. You Can’t Use Grants for Online College
Federal and state grants apply to online schools just like they do brick and mortar schools. Some online schools are even eligible for state grants when the main campus is not in your state. Remember, it’s not the method of learning that’s most important when it comes to online schools, but the accreditation of the school you attend.
3. Online Classes Aren’t Time-Consuming
It is true that going to school online may give you more options and flexibility, including how and when you spend time learning, but you still have to make time for your projects and assignments. Time management is even more important in online classes than in brick and mortar university programs because you’re the only one responsible for your progress.
How much time is enough? Expect to put at least a couple to a few hours a day, five days per week, into your online schooling.
4. Online Education Isn’t Valuable
Well-developed online courses can be just as enriching as any other form of education, especially if you dedicate yourself to them. TeachOnline stresses the importance of teachers being available and active in their engagement with students in online classes, especially if they’re learning from a distance.
It’s worth noting that how “valuable” your experience is directly relates to the effort you put in. You can earn the most benefits from your education by taking advantage of your resources and taking responsibility for your part in learning.
5. Credits Earned Online Don’t Transfer Out
There’s a pervasive myth that no online schools have accreditation with credit transfers to other universities. This is only partially true.
Some schools may not accept outside credits whether you earned them online or not. According to the University of Illinois website, most accredited distance learning facilities do in fact allow transfers, in and out, just as they would for classroom-gained credits.
Whether you go to school online or in a classroom, be sure to map your degree plan and figure out which schools accept credits from the schools you plan to attend. Many local colleges offer credits that don’t transfer anywhere.
Despite some of these misconceptions, online learning has developed enough to stand equally with traditional education. If you choose to put your best foot forward, you can have a fulfilling and valuable experience on your path to an online degree.
