Our blog focuses on the professional and educational development of ultrasound technicians. Gloria Lokos is an experienced Registered Diagnostic Cardiac Sonographer proficient in both cardiac and vascular ultrasound. She has over ten years of diverse clinical experience in the healthcare industry. Follow along, as she posts about the latest news, information and research!
In recent years, online learning has become much more common. From high school diplomas to doctorate degrees, all can be achieved through online learning. With all of the options online, it makes going to school very convenient for the student. Being able to log-in at your convenience and go to class from the comfort of your own home, or wherever you happen to be, can take a lot of stress out of going to school. Here are some things you should consider if you are thinking of enrolling in an online program:
- You will need to be able to learn independently. Although the formats for online courses vary from school to school, you will not have that same face to face interaction with your instructors as you would in a traditional setting. In some cases, you will only have your books to teach you and someone available if you need help. When researching online schools, consider what types of courses you will need to take and what type of academic support your school offers for extra help.
- Time management is important. Although you may not have to attend class at a specific time each week, you will still need to ensure that you have ample time to study and complete assignments. You will still have deadlines to meet, chapters to read, and papers to write. No one will be looking over your shoulder so you must be self-motivating to stay on track.
- Your local college may offer your degree program fully online. With the growing demand for online and adult learning, many traditional schools are now offering online degree options. This can also save you money in the long run as you will pay in-state tuition rates just like you would if you attended classes at the school. Be sure to check out some local colleges, as you may be surprised to see what they offer online.
- An online degree is just as valid as a degree from a traditional brick and mortar school. As long as the online school you are attending is a regionally accredited institution your degree is just as good as all the rest. If you are feeling unsure, compare the cirriculum of a traditional university to the cirriculum of the online university that you are interested in to make sure it measures up.
- Making new friends at school is still encouraged. Most online courses have a platform for fellow students to communicate with one another whether it be on a message board or class email. In fact for some courses, group study activities and class participation count towards your grade for the course.
- You can still have a graduation ceremony! Many online institutions still have commencement ceremonies in or near major cities so that graduates can still celebrate in the traditional fashion – cap and gown and all!
Online education will continue to grow and expand to meet the high demands. Going to school online can offer education to those who would otherwise not be able to attend a brick and mortar school. Although, as with a traditional school, it will still take time, effort, and an eagerness to learn to be successful.