I’m sure that you have heard of online learning. I know that I am bombarded with messages when I log on to my home email account from online institutions promising a degree just by hitting the “reply” button and sending a hefty sum of money. The truth is that online learning is not easier than classroom based learning. In fact, sometimes it is more difficult. But it does provide more flexibility to you in terms of the time and place you study. And because of this, you may be able to achieve your goals of earning your degree more quickly and with less frustration.

Charter Oak State College, which has awarded degrees to adult learners for more than three decades, first began offering online courses in 1998. In the past 9 years we have gone from offering 5 distance learning courses to close to 200. Our retention rate hovers at an amazing 95%. I believe this is true because we continuously monitor our courses and provide feedback to faculty and we provide upfront information to students considering online learning. Ultimately, the student needs to decide whether online learning will fit his/her learning style.

Skills that you should have

• Time Management – Although it doesn’t matter what time of day you study, you need to commit to studying on a regular basis. So, if you, like most adults, are juggling to take care of children (or parents), work full time and have a life, it is a true benefit to have control over when you “attend” class.  Just remember that you do need to contribute to discussions and complete reading and writing assignments on a weekly basis.

• Computer Skills - You’ll be required to send e-mails, navigate the Internet, download information, and use word processing software. If you feel a little weak in this area, you may wish to enroll in a computer literacy class through your local adult education program or at a community college.

• Strong writing skills - You will be expressing your thoughts and knowledge in writing throughout the class. Clarity is important.

• Desire – Remember, making a decision to returning to learning is all about achieving your goals.