http://articles.studentsoftwareplus.com/rss.xml A blog about studentsoftwareplus.com daily 365 1901-01-01T00:00+00:00 http://articles.studentsoftwareplus.com/?a=35762 <p>by Gregg Hall</p><p>Taking college courses online is a great opportunity to arrive in recent years. As more colleges offer online classes becoming a student is easier than ever. There are some important things to keep in mind since it is quite a challenge.<br /><br />To begin it is important to have unlimited access to a computer and Internet connection. Having a computer in your own home is the best scenario. It is also important to be able to read, write, and have reasonable computer skills and knowledge. You should be familiar with the computer and the Internet. Online courses are based on the Internet and communication between emails will be imperative. Having your own email address and knowledge of how to use email will be a major part of your advancement ability. You must also be able to understand basic software programs such as Windows, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Access. These or similar programs are commonly used in your daily work.<br /><br />Secondly you must be self motivated and have excellent time management skills. It will be important to keep on top of your work and not procrastinate. You may need to force out other distractions at times to study and do assignments. Pacing yourself is a knowledgeable skill that will be put to use often. Try to designate specific times every day to complete study and class work. A minimum of 13 hours per course per week is the recommended time allotment needed for success. Independent study involves much dedication to accomplish.<br /><br />Organization is another key to your success. You should have clear goals set and time to complete them. Setting aside a separate study and work area in your home may help to keep you on track. It is important to have the supplies need on hand and available to keep things on task. Having reference materials in order and available will help as well as all project materials. <br /><br />You should be ready for a challenge because there is rarely anyone available as easily as in a classroom for help. One on one contact with your professor should be available during certain times, however most rely on emails. Ability to motivate yourself, accept constructive criticism well and not getting easily discouraged are key personal traits that will help you to succeed.<br /><br />It is also very important that you enjoy the course of study you choose so that you will not lose interest prematurely. Having clear goals will help to get through the classes needed but not necessarily liked. <br /><br />With motivation, goals and organization online courses are available to those who are up to the challenge. You may be surprised at the amount of stamina it takes to succeed in online course but when you do you will have pride in your ability to accomplish great things.</p><h3 class="popup">About the Author </h3><p>Gregg Hall is an author living in Navarre Florida. Find more about this as well as student software at <br /><a href="http://www.studentsoftwareplus.com/">http://www.studentsoftwareplus.com</a></p> 2006-09-16T21:09-04:00 http://articles.studentsoftwareplus.com/?a=35761 <p>by Gregg Hall</p><p>Stuck in a rut at work? Maybe you are one of the many who think that your dream of a college education is part of the dust of your past and not possible. But is it too late to go back to school? Never. <br /><br />What? You say that you don't want to drive across town to the local campus? You're worried that you might not fit in with today's college generation? No worries. The Internet has solved many problems, and this is just one of them. A higher education sits just a click away for you, and you can actually get what you need right from your own home. <br /><br />An online bachelor's degree will bolster your career. Online bachelor's degrees come for properly accredited schools and are transferable and acknowledged by most if not all educators and employers in the country. <br /><br />Consider the advantages of obtaining an online degree. Universities most commonly offer the two types of bachelor's degrees: Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science. <br /><br />You can work at your own pace. Online universities offer flexible scheduling to accommodate your daily routines, including a fulltime job. Universities offer a broader selection of subjects for majors. You will never be late or absent for class. Most universities offer material accessible anytime of day. You can complete your degree faster from home than an on site program depending on your will and discipline. Online programs often offer competitive prices, many times less than the traditional college, and yet many view the online degree as equivalent of a traditional college education. <br /><br />Three types of online universities exist. First, diploma mills sell fake degrees not worth the paper on which they are printed. Second, internet only universities range from reputable to shady depending on the school. Finally, regional colleges often offer online program options. <br /><br />Heavy marketing diploma mills often suck students into their fake degree webs. Remember that students cannot earn a bachelor's degree in a few months of weeks. Consider the programs overview of how to earn the degree. You must complete a number of courses within your major choice. You must complete other classes in related fields. The more work required, the more legitimate the degree. Upon completion, you graduate with your bachelor's degree. This should take 2 to 3 years. <br /><br />Watch out for the common online degree myths:<br /><br />&quot;Employers don't recognize online bachelor degrees.&quot; This really depends on your school's accreditation and reputation. <br /><br />&quot;Online degrees don't compare with traditional degrees.&quot; More employers are opening up to online degrees, especially those in technical, marketing and media fields. <br /><br />&quot;College costs too much.&quot; Compared to traditional schools, online degrees are modestly priced. Research and compare. <br /><br />By simply reviewing your options, you can find a viable and reliable university and earn your online degree that will take your career to new heights. So start looking.</p><h3 class="popup">About the Author </h3><p>Gregg Hall is an author living in Navarre Florida. Find more about this as well as student software at <br /><a href="http://www.studentsoftwareplus.com/">http://www.studentsoftwareplus.com</a></p> 2006-09-16T21:06-04:00