You may be wondering how online colleges differ from traditional colleges. Online colleges offer a variety of benefits, such as flexibility and affordability. In addition, online courses offer a similar interaction with professors. For example, students can expect weekly personalized feedback on all of their courses.
Online Learning is More Affordable than Traditional Learning
Most people think online education is expensive, but that isn’t always the case. Many students can save a lot of money by enrolling in online courses. Not only are the courses more affordable, but many of them are also more flexible. You can learn at your own pace and complete them on time, which is ideal for working professionals. You can also study while taking care of your children and other responsibilities.
Unlike traditional learning, students don’t have to travel to a traditional school or face a long travel time. Instead, they can begin studying as soon as they power up their computer. Some universities even record their lectures so students can view them whenever possible. Another benefit of online education is that it cuts down on the number of hours spent in class. Online learning also allows students to apply their learning during normal working hours.
Online classes like EDsmart.org for instance also tend to be less expensive than on-campus courses. Students who study online don’t have to pay for on-campus housing and meal plans. They don’t have to worry about commuting and can even buy digital textbooks to save money. Additionally, many online programs offer financial aid to qualified students.
Students Interact with Professors in Similar Ways
Student-faculty interactions are crucial to college success. These interactions can take various forms, including office hours, e-mail exchanges, volunteering opportunities, and small group gatherings. In addition, these interactions can enhance a student’s learning experience because they allow students to ask questions related to their intellectual development and build connections with their teachers.
In an online college, students can use various ways to interact with professors. These may include discussion boards, e-mail, and video chat. Some programs may even provide a mobile app that allows students to check in anywhere, at any time. These apps can also provide easy access to course materials, notes, and assignments.
Students can Expect Weekly Personalized Feedback from All of Their Courses
Personalized feedback from instructors is crucial in online courses. In some fields, learning can make or break your career. Fortunately, most online courses offer weekly or daily feedback to help students improve their learning and prepare for exams. The professors in these courses work closely with students to help them meet deadlines and expectations. In addition, they will often communicate via e-mail or instant messenger.
Feedback from instructors should be timely and consistent. For example, the teacher should respond personally when a student sends a question or a comment. After responding, the instructor should address the question with the class and thank the student for bringing it up. This way, the student will know that the instructor appreciates their participation in the class.
Online Colleges Offer Competency-Based Learning
Competency-based learning programs are a good fit for those who need to take a few courses but don’t have time to complete a traditional college degree. These programs are self-paced learning and emphasize critical thinking and practical skills. In addition, since many of these programs are delivered online, they offer convenience and flexibility for working adults.
Competency-based programs use an assessment process centered on evaluating student learning outcomes. In most cases, faculty members guide students through competencies, provide access to learning resources, and assess their progress through exams and assigned tasks. An institutional accrediting agency should accredit online colleges that use assessment-based curriculums. Another advantage of competency-based learning is that students can move at their own pace and don’t need to meet rigid deadlines. This type of curriculum differs from traditional college courses in that students must demonstrate their knowledge and skills, not just theories. Competency-based learning tests are usually multiple-choice or fill-in-the-blank exams that measure students’ application rather than their understanding of a particular concept. Performance assignments determine whether students are ready to move to the next level.
