Online education has transformed the way people of all ages learn. It has given accessibility, flexibility and lower costs than traditional schooling to child, teen and adult students. Smart, motivated go-getters once had limited options until distance learning programs skyrocketed. Career development is lifelong with online continuing education for professionals, plus established universities offering branded courses beyond their campus populations. Online education ranges from foreign language classes for preschoolers to internet classes for high school students who need their days to work. Seniors can explore interests and talents remotely as well. These programs can employ the best teachers and instructors, because remote work stations widens hiring pools to include any location. Many also partner with brick and mortar institutions to give students mandatory, hands-on clinical training fields such as nursing require. However non clinical disciplines like accounting can give students their curriculum entirely online. Online colleges, universities and training centers pass rigorous accreditation standards before people can enroll in their programs. Early childhood education and high school programs usually offer a wealth of textbooks, workbooks and digital materials to supplement online course content. The biggest benefit? People save with lower-cost online education as well as flexibility to keep their jobs while they study.

How Does It Work?: Online Education

Once people find an online program for themselves or their child, they can enroll on a rolling basis or at the term's start date. Most programs begin immediately upon enrollment. Students receive log-ins and passwords to access their individual platform of course materials. However, some programs operate on schedules so a group may start at once with instructors who teach in sessions. Teaching usually begins upon payment for private online lessons for children and enthusiasts who want tutoring without necessarily obtaining degrees. Government financial aid and scholarships, including employer subsidy for employees' continuing education, can pay for online education. The government and employers want to help people avoid scams. Distance and remote learning programs must be accredited to collect financial aid, including student loan funds. For young children and seniors who seek tutoring or training online, remote educators should work for legitimate companies or have impeccable verified credentials.

Things To Consider: Is Online Education For You?

Online education is for people who are comfortable with computers, digital tools and basic technology. The optimal online student is also self-disciplined. People must push themselves to keep up even when lectures and exams are flexible in timing. School age students are already technology-literate, so they should adapt quickly to distance learning.

• Computer Literacy - Own a laptop or desktop computer. It is unwise to depend on public computers and internet access at places such as libraries. The computer should be equipped with word processing software for papers and an updated internet browser for programs.
• Internet Connection - A high-speed internet connection guarantees accessibility to course materials and instructor feedback. It is best to have this at home.
• Good Communication Skills - Most communication is done within the school's platform but an email address is necessary for alerts and news. Good typing skills help students communicate with instructors and program coordinators.

Questions and Answers

Even with more information, it is possible to remain skeptical about online education. Some commonly asked questions and their answers should help create a larger picture.

Q: Is online education safe?

A: When the online institution is accredited or verified, online education is a popular and safe way to learn and advance careers on the internet.

Q: How much does online education cost?

A: Online education ranges from low-cost tutoring for school-age children to expensive continuing education certificates from prestigious universities, for adult professionals.

Q: What if I do not have a computer or internet connection?

A: It is difficult to review course materials and submit assignments online without a computer or the internet.

Q: Are the teachers real?

A: Yes, courses are taught or written by qualified instructors.

Q: Can I test online education first?

A: Depending on the program, you may be able to review expired and sample curriculum material to judge quality and content beforehand. You can also take one course, rather than a whole program, to see if online education fits.

Q: Can I get a refund for online education?

A: Most programs let students adjust start dates and reimburse students if they must discontinue very early. Unused and completed courses are nonrefundable once students access them for lengthy periods and if they fail courses.