Online Learning Myths Busted

Find Out the Real Story About Online Learning

When considering whether online college is the right path for you, it is important to keep in mind that there are a variety of differences between going to school in person and through an online program. Completing courses online come with their own rules and expectations that you must adapt to as a student. With this in mind, it is important not to be distracted by the numerous misconceptions there are about online schools. The wrong influences could lead you to believe that online school is something that it is not. This would be a disservice to your education and whatever life goals you have in mind. Here are six busted myths about online degree programs.

Online Learning Myth 1: Instructors are Faceless

At first glance, it may seem that online school is a very distant and impersonal process. After all, you are not able to receive any face-to-face instruction from professors in a specific classroom. However, you will find that the accessibility of your professors and the attention they give to their students will be equivalent to that of an in-person learning experience. Your instructors will want you to succeed and will be ready and willing to assist you whenever you need help or clarification.

Online Learning Myth 2: You Have to Teach Yourself

The freedom that a remote learning program provides may lead some to believe that a student is given assignments without instruction and no further explanation. This is simply not the case. Your professor will provide a thorough course that walks you through the important concepts of the class. Instructors will provide video lectures with detailed explanations and relevant outside reading. Students will be able to interact with professors via email or video call by appointment. These resources will set you on the right track to successfully learn and take full advantage of your time enrolled in the program.

Online Learning Myth 3: It is Impossible to Network

Your classes will be full of people who are just like you. People who want nothing but to succeed while enrolled in school and after graduation. This is the perfect place to practice your networking skills and possibly make life-long friends or acquaintances. While it can be easier for some to do this in a face-to-face classroom setting, it is not impossible to do this in an online learning environment. Class forums allow students to make connections and see each other’s personalities while engaged with the course material. Many online classes take advantage of group projects and study cohorts to ensure students are able to get to know one another and build network connections.

Online Learning Myth 4: Online Courses are Easier

The idea that online courses are easier is probably amongst the widest spread myths regarding online school. When seeing people taking classes at home, it can be easy to fall into this trap. However, the same accreditation that on-campus institutions must attain also applies to online universities. At LSU Online you are earning the same degree as any on-campus counterpart, therefore your course work also matches closely. Most LSU Online instructors teaching each semester have taught an in-person version of their class, with some even teaching an in-person class that very semester. Online courses provide the same rigorous and in-depth learning as traditional learning does.

Online Learning Myth 5: Employers Don’t Value Online Degrees

When selecting new hires, employers are looking for the best possible fit for the job. A college degree is a great way to show your knowledge and commitment to that field. To the vast majority of hiring managers, there is no difference between a degree earned from a traditional school or through an online program. As long as you are able to show that you would be able to do the job and do it well, you will be considered just as much as an individual from an in-person university. The same skills needed for online learning are needed for remote positions in the business world. Gaining strong writing skills, participating in video conferences, and working independently through online learning provides a strong resume boost for some job applicants.

Online Learning Myth 6: It is Difficult to Transfer Online Credits

If you have credits earned during past college enrollment, it is understandable that you would want these credits applied to a new degree program. Online schools understand the situation you are in and want to help. They are very flexible in what classes can be accepted and how old the credits are. Not having to repeat classes will make it that much easier to earn your degree.

Start Your Path to Graduation and Career Growth

Whether you are finishing your degree or starting from scratch, LSU Online is here to help you achieve your education goals. With dedicated staff ready to answer any questions you may have, you can rest assured that you will not be starting this new chapter alone.