Only a few technological advancements in human history have had as great an impact on mankind than the computer. The computer and the internet have helped connect all the corners of the globe and have changed the way humans interact in a number of ways. One of the greatest benefits of computers and the internet has been the increased access to learning through an online education. Earning an online education has become so easy and accessible that it is a legitimate educational option for millions of individuals around the globe.
The sky is the limit when it comes to earning an online education. The teaching process and tools of the trade for online educators have advanced so much during the first decade of the 21st century that it is now possible to earn almost any degree online. The following degree programs are all available through online education institutions:
- Diploma and certificate programs
- Associate’s degrees
- Bachelor’s degrees
- Master’s degrees
- Doctoral degrees
There is perhaps only one major degree found at traditional institutions that cannot be earned online, the Doctor of Medicine (M.D.). This is due in large part to the need for a lot of hands on training for doctors in clinical settings. The M.D. aside, nearly every degree students could earn in a traditional setting can also be earned through an online education.
Regardless of the degree that a student chooses to pursue through an online education program, the setting in which they learn and the manner in which their lessons are delivered to them are going to differ greatly from traditional learning institutions. There are two ways of delivering information in an online education, through synchronous and asynchronous methods. Examples of both methods include:
Synchronous
- Web conferencing
- Videoconferencing
- Internet radio
- Live streaming
- Online chat discussions
Asynchronous
- Message board forums
- Video recordings
- Audio recordings
The methods of delivering an online education will differ from school to school and degree to degree, but many schools will employ multiple methods of delivery in their program. Additionally, many degrees will require individuals to complete a mixture of distance learning methods with onsite requirements as well. A nursing degree would be a perfect example. Individuals can earn nursing degrees online at several levels ranging from an associate’s degree to a master’s degree. The programs all include online coursework and clinical rotations at a hospital in their local area.
Earning an online education has many benefits to individuals and learning institutions alike. The benefits for individuals include but are not limited to the following:
- Flexible schedules: asynchronous methods offer extremely flexible timetables as students don’t have to meet in specific places at specific times.
- Lower cost: room and board are not necessary with online educations and because students don’t meet in a classroom, tuition costs are lower as well.
- Ability to multi-task: individuals can keep working and tend to their family while earning an online education in their spare time.
- Greater access: those who can’t afford to go away to school in another area can attend a school no matter where they live.
The growth of online educations does not signal the end for traditional institutions, they too will experience benefits from online education programs. The benefits for institutions include but are not limited to the following:
- Alleviate stress on the system: traditional institutions with online education programs can increase enrollment, and tuition income, without needing to more classrooms, dorms, and other facilities.
- Ability to make more money: traditional institutions can tap into a greater market of learners who are outside of the typical 18-22 age range of most college students. Main targets include those in business fields looking to further their education and careers.
For more information about earning an online education, searching for courses, or even finding grants to help pay for school, visit ieducation.com.