Are you thinking of seeking an education degree online? Does it make sense in general and for you in particular? Will the fact that the knowledge has been taught in this method detract from job applications later? What do students need to know before investing in online degrees in education?
According to annual surveys by the Babson Survey Research Group, the number of college students taking online courses has been increasing. Such classes are so defined when more than 80 percent of content is online, and usually interaction with teachers is not done face-to-face. In this economy, it only makes sense as people need to learn new skills or seek advancement. The growth of online education has increased faster than that of higher education in general.
The most critical aspect students should consider before choosing online degrees in education is that of accreditation. Accreditation is important for any type of course, either online or conventional. Many existing traditional schools offer online degrees, as do online only schools. Both might be accredited by the same sources. Accreditation allows you to become certified by the state and is required in order to teach in the public school system, so be sure to check before you enroll.
At the beginning of a course, students receive a syllabus online, and then complete the assignments on their own time. Tests are administered online, and usually there is some level of teacher-student or student-student interaction available. Taking an online course from a conventional school means that often students can go on campus to attend lectures or workshops if desired. Self-motivation is the key to success in online degrees in education, as is technical capability and access to a computer. Setting aside enough time during the week, perhaps up to ten hours a week for a four credit class, is essential. Students will want to be honest with themselves about self-discipline and schedules before making an investment in online degrees in education.
While acceptance of online degrees in education is growing, there are still some questions in employers’ minds. Diplomas from traditional universities generally don’t specify that the courses were completed online. Cuts to school budgets across the nation mean that there is more competition for standard teaching positions. Those with specialized degrees are apt to fare better in the job market, such as bilingual, ESL, or special needs. An online education master degree program can help you earn one of these specialized degrees while teaching. Most master degree programs require one to three years of teaching experience, the Graduate Records Exam (GRE), an undergraduate degree, and sometimes a current teaching license. Look carefully at requirements prior to enrolling.