Distance Learning FAQ

Q: Do you have any recommendations for being a better online student?

A: The following are some tips that that may help improve study skills and organization for distance learners.

• Thoroughly research the course online prior to registering. Course syllabus are generally posted on the school's website and can provide you with important information regarding required time, materials, group work, etc. At that point, you can make an informed decision about taking the course and dedicate the appropriate amount of time. The syllabus will also inform you about course objectives, calendar, textbooks used, assignments, the professor's background, etc. It is an important document that you will refer to throughout the term.
• Be sure to identify what will be required of you in terms of computer hardware and software before enrolling in a particular course. Access to a VCR, fax machine, email and web access are "must-have" items for many online classes, so be sure to check the requirements up front.
• Broadband web access (e.g. DSL or cable modem) may be a worthwhile investment, given the amount of online coursework required or time spent researching online or chatting with team members.
• Dedicate a fixed amount of time each day for your online coursework. Distance learning does provide schedule flexibility, but academic work is required and you will have regular assignments to complete and submit to your instructors.
• Keep yourself as organized as possible. Set educational objectives and maintain a calendar throughout the months of the course to ensure you are completing assignments on a timely basis.
• Try and avoid interruptions during the times you have set aside for your online study. Find locations that work best for you, in terms of maximizing your productivity, such as a local library.
• Keep in regular contact with your instructor. Don't hesitate to ask questions or request some one-on-one time to review coursework, assignments or progress being within your team (often referred to as "Cohorts").
• Make the most of your time with fellow team members. They make good study partners and are generally a good resource when preparing for exams.
• Discuss your progress and ask for regular feedback from your professor.

Q: How do you define accreditation and who are the accrediting agencies?

A: Accreditation is a process by which colleges, universities and career training schools present themselves to a an independent accrediting agency and are reviewed to ensure educational excellence, honesty, program relevance, etc. Regional accreditation's are the most common in the US, which indicates that a school is accredited by one of the six associations approved by the United States Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation. The six regional accrediting agencies include the following:

• Middle States Association (MSA)
• Northwest Association of Schools & Colleges (NASC)
• North Central Association of Colleges & Schools (NCA)
• New England Association of Schools & Colleges (NEASC)
• Southern Association of Colleges & Schools (SACS)
• Western Association of Schools & Colleges (WASC)

Q: What is Distance Education?

A: Distance Learning is generally defined as instructional delivery that does not require the student to be in a face-to-face situation with the instructor or fellow classmates. Most importantly, distance learning allows geographically dispersed individuals and groups to come together for the purpose of learning and sharing experiences.

Q: What Kind of Time Commitment Must be Made to Earn an Online Degree?

A: The best part about distance education is that you attend class at the times and places that work best for you. Students don't have to waste valuable time commuting to class or study group meetings. Because class discussions are generally conducted via email or video conference, you participate at your own schedule. Courses are generally five or six weeks and provide students with sufficient time to explore subject matter in depth.

Q: Is Distance Learning the Same as Independent Study?

A: Independent study was an earlier form of distance education and continues to remain in existence. The primary difference has to do with the amount of collaboration between students, Distance learners generally work in teams and share knowledge, experience, study groups, etc. This higher level of interaction is generally regarded as more valuable for students.

Q: Can Prior Learning Credits Count Toward a New Program?

A: Many of the online graduate programs offered do allow this, but it is handled on a case by case basis. It is recommended that you request additional information from the schools you are interested in to determine their respective policy.

Q: Are Scholarships or Financial Aid Available for Distance Education?

A: Locating funding for graduate school can be a difficult task - for both on-campus students and distance learners. Fortunately however, a variety of financial aid resources are available for online education students and the process, in terms of financial aid applications, works basically the same as on-campus students. Many of the same student loan programs, including the Federal Stafford Loan Program, are available for both on-campus and online education programs. Check our Financial Aid section for additional information and resources.

Q: How Can I Get More Information?

A: We encourage you to look around the Online Education: Masters Degrees web site and request free program information from the schools to which you are most interested. You will also find information regarding financial aid, scholarships and accredited online schools. If you still have questions, please feel free to email the webmaster and we will do our best to assist you.

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