Online college programs are becoming more and more common; however they are not for everyone and do have several challenges. 
While at first glance, online programs seem to be the best of all possible worlds, but reality sets in for most new students within the first few weeks.
Many misconceptions exist regarding a variety of traits of online coursework with one of the major ones being that there are no challenges to this delivery method.
Students who are considering online educational opportunities must seriously consider the challenges and honestly determine if they are a good fit for this type of learning. While many of the challenges are specific to the individual, there are a few that seem to be universal among all learners.
- Proficiency and comfort with technology. Because of the course delivery method, it is essential for online learners to be comfortable with technology and highly proficient in using several facets of it. Students need to be able to learn new programs and technologies quickly and master them so they can apply the new knowledge to their coursework that term. Additionally, learners must have computer equipment and internet capabilities to support the online format of the program. Finally, online students have to be able to troubleshoot and solve problems with technology with support available only remotely via phone or live-chat.
- Time management skills. Due to the individualized and independent nature of online learning, students must have excellent time management skills. Instructors of online courses generally don’t chase down their students in order to collect assignments. All of the responsibility for completing assignments, readings, and assessments falls directly on the student. Students have access to the course syllabus for the entire term, but are generally left to their own devices to complete the work by the established deadlines. While many students like the ability to work at their own pace, they must actually be able to pace themselves and not wait until the last minute to complete assignments.
- Online assignments can pile up quickly and overwhelm students who are unable to manage their time and schedules. Additionally, online learners must keep track of scheduling, graduation requirements, and other “housekeeping” issues without the benefit of outside reminders, such as in-class announcements and campus-wide information postings. Students who are not able to manage their time on their own and need regular supervision from an instructor will have serious issues with the online delivery method.
- Ability to work alone. Online learning can be very lonely. The learner must be able to work alone, ask questions when they don’t understand the material, and be responsible to themselves for their learning. There isn’t a classroom full of students who can provide support and ask questions about the material – it is fully up to the individual learner to find their own answers and provide their own support. Students who need regular discussions, lectures, and activities in order to understand course material may not be a good fit for online learning. Also, students who require a lot of interaction and feedback from their instructors may find online courses to be unfulfilling and impersonal. Very rarely do online students have the opportunity meet face to face with their instructors or with their classmates. Generally, students who do well in online courses tend to be independent learners that best receive information through reading and do not require a great deal of interpersonal communication.
Online learning provides students many opportunities that they might not be able experience in other formats. However, with all the benefits and opportunities that are available with this format, there are also challenges that must be realistically evaluated in order for the learner to get the most benefits out of their educational experience. Students have to be honest with themselves and seek the best fit for their degree preparation in all aspects. While online learning isn’t for everyone, it is an option that can open a variety of doors for many students who thought college wasn’t possible for them. By honestly looking at their personal learning traits and styles, students can select the best option for them to receive the best educational chance possible.
Harrison Bedford is a professional blogger that specializes in the medical field along with medical device research. He write for Medical Education and Research Institute, a leader for medical education teaching.
