Is Pursuing a Degree Online really for you? Who Should and Who
Stanford University's Online Lessons Learned
Stanford University's Center for Professional Development has recently completed a survey of those that have been successful in completing online degree programs globally. The results of their research provide useful guidance for anyone considering an online program. The findings of their research are summarized here:
- Best for motivated, self-directed
students who have a definite goal. The Stanford survey
confirms that the best students are those that don't need
constant attention and guidance, and most importantly, have a
clear goal for their educational degree.
- Online
learning attracts students who would not otherwise have taken
courses.The survey shows that it is definitely an either-or
situation for many students ' many don't take classes at all
unless they are offered online.
- Need for
recognition and achievement.Stanford has found that the most
effective students for online programs like to compete for high
marks online and eventually earn a degree that is delivered to
them anywhere in the world.
- High need for
autonomy. Stanford's results show that any student who
prizes their autonomy over being overly socially involved excels
at online learning programs.
- Ability to commit
up to 10 hours a week to the course. Stanford's study show
that the best students don't necessarily put in the longest
hours; they are the ones that make the most of the hours they
commit. The minimum amount of time Stanford found students could
spend per week on entry-level courses was 4 hours per week; for
graduate-level courses, 15 hours or more.
- Confidence in sharing their own experiences. Many of
the respondents to the Stanford said that the best classes were
marked by other students sharing their own experiences. The
willingness to share experiences makes for the best online
classes, and this is substantiated by the Stanford
study.
- Like to write. Stanford found this as a definite requirement, but critical to the success of anyone in an online program. Writing is the primary means by which student's interaction with each other and their instructors is achieved, so this is also important to keep in mind.
The Stanford survey shows that the more independent and focused a student is, the more successful they will be in distance learning programs. Writing is also important, as is the willingness to contribute to classes.
About the author: Rose M. is the editor of www.distanc e-learning-college-guide.com where you find answers, information and advice on distance learning colleges, accredited online degrees and online courses. See more related information on distance learning benefits