How can I tell if online learning is for me?

Online class

How can I tell if online learning is for me?

Online accelerated career education is a rewarding way to learn. Programs are flexible and can be adapted to fit your lifestyle. Whether you want to juggle your classes with family responsibilities, work or a busy social life, learning through the Internet can be a practical solution. If you are considering online career education, ask yourself the following questions to ensure online learning is the right fit for your life.

Do you have a reliable computer and Internet connection at home?

When an education program is delivered 100% online it is important to always have access to a computer and the Internet at home. These need to be reliable and regularly available, so you can always ensure your work is submitted on time. “My computer broke” is the modern version of “the dog ate my homework”, so avoid having to use this excuse at all costs. Using cloud-based data storage solutions (such as OneDrive, Google Drive or DropBox) can help ensure your work is always backed up if an emergency strikes.

Can you work on the computer for several hours at a time?

It is always best to block out a few hours at a time to study. Creating regular study times will help ensure you keep up-to-date with all your work. You need to be sure you won’t have to fight for computer time. Also, think about ways to avoid being distracted by the procrastination options available on the Internet (I’m looking at you cute kitten videos and Facebook).

Do you have time for study?

To complete all tasks on time and keep on top of your coursework, you will need to put aside at least 16 hours per week for studying. This time can be spread throughout the week, but it is best to set aside a few hours at a time to study. If you don’t have the time to do this, then online study may not be for you.

Are there times when you can avoid distractions at home?

Sometimes you can’t avoid a few distractions, and online accelerated learning provides you with the opportunity to study in a way that is flexible enough to adapt to your lifestyle. However, to study at home you need to be sure there are some times that you will be able to study without distractions.

Will you be able to keep up with your course work each week without falling behind?

At CCI Training Center, we want to ensure you achieve all your study goals. Staying on top of your work each week is the best way to be successful at online learning. It is expected that you will be completely up-to-date with your coursework by Sunday evenings, ready to begin the new school week. This not only prevents you from falling behind but also ensures you can contribute to and learn from online discussion forums.

Are you motivated to succeed?

While online learning is very rewarding, it can be isolating. Without face-to-face contact with teachers and other students, it is easy to become unmotivated. You only have yourself to keep you productive and on-track. If you are focused on your goals, complete all your coursework each week and can avoid distractions, then you are well on your way to being a successful student.

Do you have good communication skills?

The great thing about online learning is you don’t actually have to leave the house to get an education. However, that doesn’t mean you can completely avoid interacting with other people. Because the program is conducted over the internet, most communication with your teacher and classmates will be done via chat, email, and discussion groups. You must be able to communicate your ideas and inquiries clearly and effectively to ensure you get the most from your online study.

Do you understand and agree that online education requires discussion and collaboration with other students and with your instructor?

It is really difficult to learn all by yourself. Since Ancient Greece, learning has been a matter of discussion and collaboration with other thinkers. To benefit most from your online education, you must understand the value of, and participate in, discussion forums with instructors and fellow students. Talking to instructors and other students will help you get the most out of your studies by allowing you to discuss course material further.

Are you willing to participate in online discussion forums with other students and with your instructor?

To make sure you have a good understanding of the coursework and are up-to-date with each week’s tasks, you will be expected to participate in regular discussion forums with students and instructors. It is important that you regularly communicate in forums in a productive and clear manner that contributes to the ongoing learning of all students, including yourself.

If you answered yes to all the questions above, then you are ready to kickstart your career with online education. Go to CCI Training Center’s Online Business & Accounting page.

CCI Training Center is proud to have completed 40 years in service.