Timing is everything

Been lurking here for a while, figured it's time I started posting. I'm interested in distance learning, but have yet to take the plunge. Fear always has a way of making even the simplest of tasks seem daunting. To be honest, I have yet to find a reason to truly study. But I know it's something that must be done. An educated mind, and all that. So I ask, on average, how much time does a distance learner usually spend "hitting the books"? I know that your typical college student at a B&M university will easily spend about 10 hours a week of study-time for every 3 credit class. I'm also aware that the only thing online study saves is time and gasoline, which these days, has actually become a hot commodity. In other words, I know it's not easy. My question is, just how hard is it? Thanks.

 

It is easy for time management; however, it is harder in academic because you have limited chance to contact your instructor than B&M. Besides, it requires more self study; where B&M has group study and etc.

If you have a full-time job, you can manage 1 to 3 classes per semester easily.

 

Actually you save more than time and gasoline, you save in other fees connected to your registration in campus like parking lot, gym fees,health fees, and other ridiculous fees,not to mention the wear and tear of your cloths and car, and food. Add to that your health is not deteriorating since you don't have to deal with traffic idiots.

You will be expected to spend about 10-20 hours a week per class and depending on the subject. I am handling 3 classes per semester since early 2007 and have move pretty quick.

Best of luck.

 

First of all, wanted to say thanks for the very quick responses. Know that they are appreciated. Since I work part-time, I was thinking of taking between 3 and 4 classes per semester, as time and money allows. My main concern is that, after nearly 5 years out of college and a schedule that is all over the place, I won't be able to handle the demands of online education. If I may ask, is financial aid available even if you are not taking a full course load (12 credits per semester)? I was planning on "testing the water" with two classes this Spring, and hopefully, go from there. Since you guys are the experts (I am constantly amazed by the knowledge displayed in this board ), what do you think? Once again, thank you.

 

If you are talking about undergraduate level there is Pell Grant and if you take 6 credits online per term (usually 8 weeks) that may be consider you full time, most regional universities have financial aid available (except a few University like Amberton and Northcentral). One National Accredited University (Columbia Southern University) is offering financial aid at the undergraduate (Pell Grant and loans) and graduate(loans).

Disclaimer: I am not endorsing above mention universities despite one way or another I am (was) a student (graduated, currently pursuing) or an applicant (declined).

 

Ronin,

Welcome to the forums. I managed to finish an AA degree from a nice community college in a bit over a year. I did this while on active duty and let me tell you the schedules are all over the place as well. What I am trying to say is, you can do it if you really want it!

The beauty of DL is flexibility. Like Vinipink said you have more time than gasoline. The question is are you ready to make the time to study? Having enough time and making time are the difference between success and failure. You'll have to be dedicated and make time to study.

Financial Aid = YES! It's the same are any other regionally accredited would offer. (most of the time)

4-5 classes seems pretty heavy though. I wish I had the stones to do that many classes.

You'll find all the information you need here when it comes to distance learning.

Good Luck

 

If you're looking at an AA degree, you might want to check out FCCJ in Florida. Here's the site for tuition. http://www.fccj.edu/prospective/tuition/index.html

The reason I suggest them is because they have a LOT of courses that have staggered start times making it much easier to pick up extra credits. This works well even if your primary college is somewhere else. My ds has 19 credits this semester but never has more than 3 courses that overlap. Next semester will be more difficult at a different college with 5 classes starting at the same time.

 

Ronin,

One method of alleviating some of the workload is to look for schools that have 8 week classes or some variant. I found that I could easily complete four classes a semester by taking two at a time and doing it on the 8 week system. In some cases I was only able to complete two or three due to course availability.


As for how hard. That depends on your own background and work ethic. If you approach distance learning as a vocation and ensure that you set and complete the course assignments in an orderly fashion you should have no problem. The nice thing about most DL courses is that due dates are published in the syllabus and you must manage your time to meet the dates. The "how" that gets you to the date is on your shoulders.

What level of education are you wanting to pursue? What field?

Best wishes,