Want to work from home?
March 8, 2012
The popularity of online learning has increased dramatically in recent years. According to a 2011 study conducted by Babson Survey Research Group and the College Board, the number of students taking at least one online course has surpassed 6 million. Nearly one-third of all students in higher education are currently taking at least one online course.
"The rate of growth in online enrollments is ten times that of the rate in all higher education," said study co-author I. Elaine Allen.
While students of all ages and backgrounds are fueling the growth in online learning, this type of learning is often especially attractive to mothers pursuing a college degree, as they allow them the flexibility they need to balance the demands of motherhood and education simultaneously.
In addition, taking online courses can be less expensive than attending traditional brick-and-mortar schools. As long as the school is accredited, students attending online college programs are able to use grants for parents, single mother scholarships, scholarships for mothers and other financial aid to offset the cost.
Moms pursuing a degree online also save time and money on commuting, transportation and other expenses.
Some of the benefits of taking classes from the comfort of your own home may also get you thinking about if you can arrange a similar schedule in the workforce. Whether you are working full-or part-time while pursuing a degree, now may be the time to consider a work-from-home arrangement.
According to Working Mother magazine, several studies have confirmed that telecommuting can be a great option for busy employees, like moms who are trying to achieve a balance between work and family commitments.
The publication reports that a recent Stanford University study found that telecommuting makes workers 11 to 15 percent more productive than office-bound employees.
In addition, a University of Minnesota study found that telecommuters are generally healthier and less stressed than those who work from their company's location.
"On average, people who work from home get an extra hour of sleep every night, have higher energy levels and have less stress overall," Working Mother reports.
The Telework Exchange reports that if all of the 62.5 million U.S.-based, full-time wage and salary workers teleworked two days per week for a year, they would collectively save $215 billion in commuting costs.
It's also good for the environment, as working from home helps reduce pollutants in the air and water.
There are many resources available for moms who want to find jobs that allow them to work from home. They include websites such as MomCorps.com, FlexJobs.com, WAHM.com, TheCareerPartners.com, On-Ramps.com, IRelaunch.org, FlexibleResources.com, FlexibleExecutives.com and AlpineAccess.com.
Others may choose to discuss the possibility of telecommuting with their supervisor - presenting the facts to your supervisor may help make this dream a reality!
