Posted By: Staff Editor In: Furthering Your Education More and more people are making the untraditional choice to get their masters degree online.
If you have considered taking the distance learning route, you should know that there are many different pros and cons to getting an online masters degree or education. Carefully weighing these advantages and disadvantages prior to making a decision is always a good idea.
The Pros of Getting a Masters Degree or Education Online Convenience - One of the biggest advantages to attending an online masters program versus a campus-based program is the convenience. Online programs allow you to get an education from a world-class school without ever leaving the comfort of your own living room. You don't have to deal with commuting, face-to-face interactions, or classes that are scheduled at inconvenient times.
Education is Now More Advanced - The significant advances that have been made in distance learning itself are another good reason to consider getting a masters degree or education online. A growing number of schools are offering online programs now, which makes it easy to find a school that is a good fit for you. Many of these programs also have the same curriculum and award the same degree as the schools' campus-based programs--the only difference is that the tuition is often lower with online programs.
The Cons of Getting a Masters Degree or Education Online
Need Self Motivation - Although there are several benefits to getting an online masters degree or education, there are potential disadvantages as well. You will need to be very self-motivated and disciplined if you want to succeed in an online learning environment. Most programs do not have set class schedules, which means it will be up to you to fit classes into your daily life. If you don't get the work done or put in the time required, you will most certainly fail.
Comments
Posted by: Michael J. Taggart, BSM, MBA
With regard to on – line vs. on – ground classes, I can state for a fact that on – line requires a firm, steadfast, dedication to purpose. The classes are fast-paced, which requires the student to be constantly attuned to what is being discussed, what assignments are required and when, and to focus on the importance of the subject matter with regard to the course objectives.My desire to pursue an MBA at age 63 was so strong, that I put it above everything but my work, because I sincerely wanted to prove to myself that I could achieve this goal. This perseverance paid off, because I completed the degree in 15 months. Although not easy, it taught me much about how to focus my desire to attain my goals. Seven days per week were required to earn that “A”, but now I consider it worth it in every respect. I recommend on – line, because of the self-discipline one develops quickly, and the ability to focus ever more intently on that goal to be achieved. Since no one is there to remind you that that paper is due, or those assignments mean your grade, it builds the ability to take control of one’s destiny proactively, which results in a more concentrated focus, which pays dividends in the end. I wholeheartedly recommend advancing one’s education at any stage in life, and more especially now. The business world is constantly changing, and it is required of everyone just to keep up with the ongoing changes in the way business is conducted. I am even considering teaching in on – line classrooms, to give the benefit of my 42+ years of experience in the business world – I do have some stories to share that you won’t find in the textbooks.
Posted by: eva
Yes, it's great to follow a class in pajamas! But it's important to consider all the aspects of a distance online learning.
Posted by: ianchap
good article
Posted by: jaklyne
this is an awesome article which will be helpful for students.
Posted by: andrew
this is really a helpful post
Posted by: dwayne carter
Although there are certainly a great amount of obstacles to getting a Master's degree in Education online, the increase in the quality of education that we are offering our children is worth it - not to mention the additional salary and prestige that also comes with it.I had a great time getting an online Master's of Education. I also had the problem of needing a flexible schedule and distance learning turned out to a much better experience than I thought. You should look into it.
