Is Pursuing A Degree Online Really For You? Who Should And Who Should Not?


Stanford University's Online Lessons Learned

Stanford University's Center for Professional Development has recently completed a survey of those that have been successful in completing online degree programs globally. The results of their research provide useful guidance for anyone considering an online program. The findings of their research are summarized here:

  • Best for motivated, self-directed students who have a definite goal. The Stanford survey confirms that the best students are those that don't need constant attention and guidance, and most importantly, have a clear goal for their educational degree.

  • Online learning attracts students who would not otherwise have taken courses.The survey shows that it is definitely an either-or situation for many students - many don't take classes at all unless they are offered online.

  • Need for recognition and achievement.Stanford has found that the most effective students for online programs like to compete for high marks online and eventually earn a degree that is delivered to them anywhere in the world.

  • High need for autonomy. Stanford's results show that any student who prizes their autonomy over being overly socially involved excels at online learning programs.

  • Ability to commit up to 10 hours a week to the course. Stanford's study show that the best students don't necessarily put in the longest hours; they are the ones that make the most of the hours they commit. The minimum amount of time Stanford found students could spend per week on entry-level courses was 4 hours per week; for graduate-level courses, 15 hours or more.

  • Confidence in sharing their own experiences. Many of the respondents to the Stanford said that the best classes were marked by other students sharing their own experiences. The willingness to share experiences makes for the best online classes, and this is substantiated by the Stanford study.

  • Like to write. Stanford found this as a definite requirement, but critical to the success of anyone in an online program. Writing is the primary means by which student's interaction with each other and their instructors is achieved, so this is also important to keep in mind.

Bottom Line:

The Stanford survey shows that the more independent and focused a student is, the more successful they will be in distance learning programs. Writing is also important, as is the willingness to contribute to classes.

Rose Musyoka is the editor of http://www.distance-learning-college-guide.com where you find answers, information and advice on distance learning colleges, accredited online degrees and online courses. See more related information at distance learning benefits and advantage and disadvantage of distance learning

More Resources

Unable to open RSS Feed $XMLfilename with error HTTP ERROR: 404, exiting

More College/
University Information:

Related Articles

Academia Fraud and Brain Washing Cartels
Many have a tough time listening to the scientists debate amongst themselves and laugh at the peer reviews. With puffed up chests they publish or perish and there is lots of competition in the field.
College Bound: The Organized Dorm
I can still remember my shopping list for my first dorm room. Years ago we kept it simple -- the must have storage staple was the old dairy crate and that was pretty much it.
Secrets Of Successfully Sitting Exams
Many people work hard studying various subjects to sit for examinations in them. Fine.
The All-Important College Application
H.G.
Looking For a Rewards Program That Offers Free Money for College Students?
With the rising cost of books, tuition and housing, it's no wonder that college students are looking for ways to cash in on anything that can lighten their financial load. It isn't easy trying to balance an exciting social life, education and your finances at any age - not to mention in your teens and twenties.
Naturopathic Schools
NATUROPATHIC SCHOOLS instruct in Naturopathic medicine which is an holistic approach that relies on natural remedies altogether. Sunlight, air, and water are thought of as natural healers; this, along with nutritional supplements and massage therapies are all part of naturopathic medicine.
Submitting The College Application
At this point, except for the waiting, the worst is basically over! However, the way you submit the student's stuff is just about as important as the stuff that's being submitted!The correct order is: (1) The application is first (2) followed by the essays, which should be attached to the application unless there are specific instructions to the contrary; (3) Next is the resume, which should be stapled together, but not to the application or the essays; (4) The special essay(s) follow and should be paper clipped to the resume as opposed to being stapled to it. Attach a large paper clip to all of the above to ensure everything stays in the proper order, and then send the entire package overnight or 2nd day with a signature guarantee.
Prepping for the new SAT I
On March 12, 2005, high school juniors across the country were the first to take the new SAT I test, the standardized testing used in the college admission process. The test is 3 hours and 45 minutes, instead of just 3 hours, and contains a third writing section.
Whats behind the Explosive Growth in Distance Learning?
There is a ground swell of support globally to support the growth of distance learning. Market research firms, government agencies, public and private companies, and even venture capital firms - those companies that invest in new and emerging businesses - all agree that distance learning's future is very bright, and a good investment opportunity as well.
Online Education with the University of Phoenix
University of Phoenix Online Focuses on Team LearningUnlike some other schools, the University of Phoenix Online focuses on Team Learning. For all classes, team assignments can make up to 20% of the student's total grade.
Scholarships not Working for You Neither, Huh?
We're going to college, and we need cash. We have tuition and food, housing, books.
College Freshman: How to Get Over Homesickness
Whether you're a freshman or a senior, studying abroad or going to college in your hometown - it's natural to have a period of adjustment when you leave home. Experiencing new things and meeting different people can be exciting and stressful at the same time.
Internship Opportunities at Levine Communications
ENTERTAINMENT & PUBLIC RELATIONS INTERNSHIPS AVAILABLE NOW! "As we celebrate our twentieth (20th) anniversary as one of Hollywood's most prominent entertainment PR firms, I'm convinced that our intern program continues to be one of the most dynamic in the entire entertainment industry. Since 1983, over 2,200 interns have passed through our doors.
Tips On College Selection
It is highly recommended that early in the college selection process, parents and student(s) visit some schools to determine if they'll be suitable. The criteria that must be considered before any college is applied to include:? Average GPA, SAT I, class rank for acceptance? The school should offer enough choices in the event the student changes their major? Size, location, Greeks, religious affiliation? Percentage of freshmen that return for year two? Percentage of freshmen that graduate in four years? Percentage of financial need met? Percentage of gift aid/self-help awarded? On or off campus job opportunities? Meal plans and dietary situations met? Name recognition? Student/teacher ratio? Average class size, semester or trimester? Percentage of professors who teach and percentage of teaching assistants? 2 or 4-year college or university? Co-ed dorms? Freshman cars permitted? Handicap accessibility? Cost of the sheepskinIt is also recommended that you determine if the school uses a need-blind or need-sensitive admissions policy.
Pre-Bachelor
The program should be one term, two terms or three terms (1 year). This program is meant for students who lack the necessary language skills to start the first-year bachelor program, the course enables them to improve their skills in reading, writing, listening and speaking.
What Are Online Masters Degrees?
Online masters degrees are higher education college degrees that are earned over the Internet. In order to apply, individuals must first have a bachelor's degree in the same field of study as the masters degree they wish to obtain.
Saving For College - Your Number Two Priority
In today's highly competitive college admissions process, families must never lose sight of the fact that nothing is more important to parent or child than the student's acceptance to college. Your second priority is how to pay for it.
IMT College - Full Online
IMT College - full online* Ensure Your Future* Immediate Use of Skills* 8 Week Certificate Course* Online Faculty Support* 100% Online* Anytime, Anywhere, for everybodyExplore Your PossibilitiesNow, no matter where you live or what your schedule, you can tap into one of the nation?s leading business schools and learn valuable skill-sets that will have an immediate impact on your current job and help ensure your future success!Our approach to managerial skills be characterized as attempting to teach all what is necessary to have success in business world and to reach your business goals. Attending our courses you can test your new skills all the time answering on our questions in many tests which are prepared for our students.
Online College Programs - How to Apply
The first step to getting your online degree is to apply to colleges. Research several colleges offering the degree program you need.
Distance Learning : Get an education while you work!
Distance Learning Makes the GradeDistance Learning might make all the difference for you between your hole in the wall job and your dream job. Many working professionals have learned that they don't have to stop working to fulfill their dream of learning more.