Even with technology upgrades, students still need to manage their education to make certain they get the most out of it.
For the nearly half of working adults who are interested in taking an online course, plugging into online education is easier than ever before. Now you can receive real-time alerts when grades are posted or participate in a discussion forum with classmates around the world – all before that morning cup of coffee has finished brewing.
If you are unsure of online learning, consider some of the following benefits:
- You may experience reduced expenses. Calculate your potential cost savings.
- Motivated and independent learners thrive in an online learning environment.
- Although you can save time taking an online course, you’ll still need to devote a sufficient number of hours each week.
- Online courses may fit better with your busy life because you can access your classes anytime, anywhere through the Internet.
- You can simultaneously take on-campus and online courses.
- Many students who aren’t comfortable participating in on-campus classes find they contribute more freely online.
Being well prepared for taking online course work is important. We want you to have the best possible experience!
Online instruction is similar in many ways to on-campus instruction. Courses involve faculty, classmates, books and other learning resources. You are required to participate in courses and complete assignments on time.
Classes range from 6-16 weeks and follow the traditional academic year. Most programs may be completed totally online, while some programs have onsite requirements.
As a student, you can expect to be an active learner! Successful learners typically set aside 12-15 hours of study time each week per course, just as you would for a traditional classroom course. Online learning is best suited for those who are self-motivated and self-directed learners. It requires that you go beyond listening to a lecture or reading course notes. We invite you to take this quiz to see if you are ready for online learning. If you are taking an online course for the first time, we suggest you try one course to determine if this mode of learning is right for you.
In the online learning environment you will have access to the course syllabus and course schedule which contains your instructor’s name and email address. You will submit the assignments directly to your instructor in the online course site. Throughout the learning process, your instructor will be available to guide you and answer your questions.
We invite you to further explore Distance Minnesota where we are committed to offering a satisfying, effective and affordable online college experience!