Online Education: A Beneficial Opportunity or a Destructive Option?

With the rapid development of technology, an increasing number of up-to-date colleges and universities implement online courses. Would you like to get your degree without leaving home? No doubt, the vast majority of modern students prefer web-based education to the traditional offline one, especially in the present-day reality. While language courses and different certificates have been available and accessible for many years, an opportunity to get a real degree online is comparatively new. The top-ranked universities and reputable institutions provide students with online learning offers, which attract the attention of international students, who have always been eager to study but have never had a chance to enter. The courses are available in the most different subjects, so even the most selective student will find an appropriate one.

It is inevitable to remember numerous unique benefits online learning provides. Flexibility, adjustability, convenience, and affordability are only a few advantages that contribute to the student's appreciation. At the same time, learners should also remember the challenges they can face during online studying. First of all, an exceptional level of motivation, persistence, determination, and inspiration are necessary to start the course and finish it. Anyway, online learning seems to be the future of education, so you need to check out its specifications and peculiarities before you try it.

Online Education How It Is

The very idea of online learning may be scary and frustrating, as you will not have an opportunity to interact with professors and other students face-to-face. Instead, you may encounter the most different resources, such as eBooks, videos, online communication platforms, chats, discussion forums, and live Q&A sessions to deepen your knowledge and succeed in your studying. However, the types and specifications of online resources will depend greatly on the facility you choose. Some universities still require students to buy physical textbooks, while others utilize only online web-based platforms for learning. If you are confused about the learning process and the way it is delivered or accessed, keep reading to get more details.

An interesting fact: over 6 million learners take some of their courses online. Additionally, the vast majority of students consider online learning to be a modern, relevant, and convenient way to get a degree. So, if you are the one who cannot travel to the college of a dream, you are fortunate to take any of its courses online.

Web-based studying is not only affordable but also safe and accessible. There is hardly any university or college left that delivers learning resources via email. Most facilities have already focused their attention and effort on the creation of trusted and 100% protected learning platforms that are accessible at any time and from any place. PC, laptop, tablet, or phone with an internet connection are necessary for students who strive to take a degree online.

What should you expect from an individual online course? Diversity of personal assignments, discussion activities, journal tasks, and exams are offered for students who take advantage of online education. Compare the opportunities offered by different facilities before you make the final choice. Opt for the college or university that meets all your preferences and requirements.

Online vs. Offline Education: Pros and Cons of Each Experience

It is impossible to deny that different students prefer various types of learning. While motivated and self-confident ones can succeed with online courses, others require real-life interaction with qualified mentors and professors. Check out the essential advantages and drawbacks of both experiences before you make your choice.

Offline Education

A traditional college education is a great chance to get a degree, feel the atmosphere of freedom, and become more responsible. Learners have to leave the comfort of their own homes and immerse themselves in the studying process.

• Motivating and competitive atmosphere.
• Real-life, face-to-face interaction.
• An opportunity to improve and master interpersonal skills.
• Excellent discipline and an individualized approach to every student.

• Fixed locations.
• Restricted schedule.
• The necessity to move into a dorm.
• The diversity of expenses related to accommodation and transportation.
• Expensive paper textbooks and study materials.

Online Education

Similar to offline studying, online experience has its supporters and critics. Make sure you understand all the possible merits and downsides of the process before you send your application.

• Cheap programs and affordable courses.
• Flexible schedule, which can be adjusted to your needs.
• Location is not important, as the only things you will need are the PC and the Internet.
• Time-saving experience.
• Maximum convenience.
• No need to spend money on textbooks.
• Recorded lessons that you can watch later.

• No motivation and competition.
• A limited number of topics.
• No way to study without self-discipline and excellent time-management skills.
• Isolation.
• No communication.

Online Degrees Students Can Get

There are different stereotypes about online education. The vast majority of people associate it with extra activities that can aid your basic studying, promoting it to a higher level. In fact, modern online studying is about getting a real degree in the field of your interest. The availability and accessibility are the most significant advantages of the experience, as they provide students with an exclusive chance to study at any college or university around the globe. Have you always dreamt of studying at Harvard? Well, not it is real, and it will not cost a fortune. Additionally, the average students have an opportunity to get any degree they are interested in. Still, the most popular directions include business, nursing, liberal arts, computer science, language, data science, engineering, humanities, and others.

Top 5 Universities Offering Online Courses

The affordability is one of the essential points that make people give the online experience a try. Currently, even students with a limited budget can get the desired degree. Check out the list of colleges that offer the most expensive and the cheapest courses.

• South Texas College is, probably, the most affordable college ever. A student can pursue a degree in computer studies, political science, education, and technology management at $1600 a year.
• Great Basin College is one of the most appreciated online facilities ever. The school offers seven bachelor degrees and ten certificate programs at a reasonable cost. On average, the student will have to pay $3000 of tuition a year.
• The University of Florida hosts over 3,500 students who study online. The university offers 25 undergraduate majors that can be obtained online at average tuition of $11000 a year.
• Texas Tech University is classified as one of the most beneficial online facilities that provide over 20 master's programs at around $800 per credit hour.
• Northeastern University is one of the most expensive research facilities that offer online courses. There are over 60 different degrees that can be pursued online. However, a single credit hour costs $1,500

Top 3 Things You Need for Quality Online Studying

Once you have finally made your mind to give online education a try, make sure you have everything necessary for your progress. Work on the development of personal skills and traits that will help you take advantage of online learning and enjoy an efficient web-based studying. Check out the list of the crucial things that will determine the success of your experience.

• Quality equipment, such as a personal computer, laptop, or tablet with a strong Internet connection is a must.
• Comfortable working place, where you can concentrate on your studying and forget about routine duties.
• Lack of distractions, like mobile phones or other people that may take your attention.