You’ve probably heard about online courses by now. They’re becoming more and more popular as a way to get an education, and for a good reason: they’re convenient, affordable, and flexible. With online studying, you can learn at your own pace, in your own home, and on your own time. The courses are often shorter than traditional courses, saving you time and money. It’s more of a commitment than watching a few lectures on YouTube, but it’s still a lot less expensive and time-consuming than going to university.
Before you sign up for an online course, you should know a few things. Here are six things you need to know about studying online:
1. The Courses Are Usually Flexible
Most online courses are incredibly flexible, one of their main selling points. You can usually choose when and how you want to study. If you have a full-time job or family responsibilities, an online course from https://studyonline.canberra.edu.au/ can be a great way to fit education into your busy life. However, it’s important to note that not all courses are created equal in terms of flexibility. Some courses allow for more leeway than others, so read the fine print before signing up. Also, be prepared to do a little more work than you would in a traditional course. Since there is no professor available in person, you’ll likely have to be more self-sufficient in learning.
2. You’ll Need Self-Discipline
When you’re studying online, no one looks over your shoulder to make sure you’re doing the work. It’s up to you to make sure you stay on track and meet deadlines. This can be tough if you’re not used to working independently, but it’s important to remember that you’re in control of your learning. If you need help staying accountable, try finding a study buddy or joining an online study group. Self-discipline is essential when studying online because there are no set hours you must attend class. You can do all of your coursework at 3 am if you want to. Also, there are no “in-person” office hours where your professor is available to answer questions. You will have to be proactive in seeking help if you need it.
3. The Course Material Is Usually Available Online
One of the benefits of studying online is that all course material is usually available online. This means you can access it from anywhere, which is excellent if you need to learn on the go or want to review something again. It also means that there’s no need to buy textbooks, saving you a lot of money. However, this perk can also be a downside. If you’re not good at managing your time, you may scroll through material for hours without absorbing anything. Make sure to set aside time in your schedule for breaks to stay fresh and focused while you’re studying.
4. You May Need to Purchase Software or Hardware
In some cases, you may need to purchase software or hardware to access your course material or participate in class. For example, if you’re taking an online course that requires video conferencing, you’ll need a webcam and microphone. These items are usually relatively inexpensive, but it’s important to factor them into the cost of your course before you enroll. You may need to purchase more expensive items, like a graphing calculator for a math class. In these cases, it’s often possible to find used items for sale online or rent them from your school’s library. These added expenses can also be a downside to online courses, especially if you’re on a tight budget. Before signing up for a course, know what you need and how much it will cost.
5. You’ll Need a Good Internet Connection
This one should be pretty obvious, but it’s worth mentioning anyway. Studying online requires a good internet connection. If you’re constantly getting kicked off of your Wi-Fi or dealing with slow speeds, completing your coursework will be very difficult. Online courses require at least a basic level of internet safety and proficiency, so it’s essential to make sure you’re up to the task before enrolling. As a general rule, you should have an internet connection of at least 10 Mbps for download and 3 Mbps for upload. If your primary link goes down, you may also want to consider getting a backup internet connection, such as a mobile hotspot. This way, you can always stay connected and get your work done no matter what.
6. There May Be Tests or Other Assignments That Need to Be Completed In Person
While most coursework can be completed online, some professors may require that you take exams or turn in specific assignments in person. This is usually the case with courses that have a lab component, but it can also happen with other types of courses. If this is the case, make sure you know where the nearest testing center is and how to get there. Also, not all colleges offer testing centers for their online students. If your school doesn’t have one, you may need to find a proctor and pay for their services. This can add extra cost and hassle to your schooling, so know what you’re getting into before enrolling in an online course.
7. There May be Group Projects
Just like in traditional courses, online courses sometimes require group projects. If this is the case, make sure you know how the project will be assigned and how grades will be determined. Some professors use a grading rubric that considers everyone’s contributions, while others divide the grade based on each person’s percentage of work. It’s also important to know who your project partners will be. You don’t want to get stuck with someone you don’t get along with or who is difficult to work with. Try to get a sense of your classmates’ personalities before the project begins so that you can avoid any potential conflicts.
Overall, online courses can be a great way to get a college education. These are just a few things to keep in mind if you’re considering studying online. Just make sure you know what you’re getting into and factor in all the associated costs. With proper planning, you can earn your degree without ever stepping foot in a traditional classroom.
