It’s time to shop. You’ve researched online schools and decided to invest in an education, joining students of all ages and backgrounds who reside all over the world. And it’s likely you want to spend your money on an online college program that’s the right “fit.”
With any college search, advisors recommend that students look toward schools with programs and reputations best suited to their educational and career goals. Pursuing an online college education allows for taking that search one step further: by looking for programs that meet your individual lifestyle and scheduling needs. Some schools offer entire degree programs online, while others combine that with campus-based classes or class components. Taking a campus tour is likely to involve browsing the web site that is part or all of a college campus.
Browsing the wide array of online school offerings, you might “try schools and programs on” for size and comfort. In addition to determining course requirements, you might find out about areas that can improve your learning experience and keep you working to achieve your goals. Consider how flexible deadlines are and, in some instances, if they keep time zones in mind. Determine how accessible online college instructors are and if they provide timely, meaningful feedback. Consider also how online college classes are taught and whether they provide opportunities to interact with the “classroom” community via chat rooms and similar offerings. Here are online college shopping guidelines, modified from U.S. Department of Education and non-profit College Board information:
• Start shopping. In addition to touring college web sites, you might review any promotional e-mails and print and digital brochures that online colleges and traditional colleges with online offerings send you. Is a college fair planned in your area? Consider attending it as a means of finding out more information about online college offerings. In addition to speaking with college representatives, you might be able to gain input from college students. Read the rest of this entry »

