The challenges of online learning
December 20, 2011
The number of college students taking online classes is on the rise. In fact, a recent survey conducted by the Sloan Consortium revealed that the number of students taking at least one online course has surpassed 6 million. In all, nearly one-third of all students (31 percent) in higher education are taking at least one online course.
Online learning offers a lot of benefits to students, especially mothers who are trying to balance the demands of school and family.
It's a commonly-used type of education for non-traditional college students, such as mothers who are pursuing a degree. The National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) reports that 29 percent of students with one or more children and 32 percent of married students take at least one distance education class, in contrast to 18 percent of students who neither have children nor are married. In addition, the NCES reports that while 23 percent of all undergraduates are age 30 or older, 53 percent of undergraduates in a distance education degree program are in this age group.
These classes allows students to work when it's convenient for them - when their kids are at school, napping or at night. Online courses are also an attractive option to mothers returning to school who are self-conscious about the age difference or other differences between themselves and other students. In addition, online programs tend to be less expensive than other colleges. Students taking online college courses will also save on expenses such as transportation and childcare in many cases.
Even though online programs tend to be more affordable than other colleges, those pursuing a degree this way can still apply for and receive various college scholarships and grants to offset the costs. Students should note, however, that the program must be accredited in order to qualify for federal financial aid.
In addition, it's important to know that this type of learning does not come without some difficulties for some.
According to Working Mother magazine's Working Mom Survival Guide, these challenges include distractions, a feeling of isolation, procrastination and gadget addiction.
"You may find yourself constantly checking your gadgets to stay in the loop," the magazine suggests. "The problem is, that urge can spill into family time, leaving you less connected with the ones who matter most."
The publication suggests those who are pursuing an education from home stay focused by working in a designated spot and training your family to know that you are unavailable while you are focusing on school.
Carefully creating a realistic schedule for yourself will also help avoid some of the challenges of being a student at home.
"If you are self-disciplined, excel at time management and feel prepared to ask questions, then you have a reasonably good chance of succeeding in an online learning environment," according to StudentsOver30.com.
