Online Learning: Characteristics and Approaches to Managing Learning
INFT 101

Have you recently decided to go back to college and earn your degree or further your education? Have you thought that maybe online courses may be the right choice for you? Maybe you feel you don’t have the discipline to stay focused and motivated if you take courses the less traditional way and opt to study online. Well, I have read an article that explains the online approach and the learner characteristics and approaches. The curriculum that is offered for distance learners has really grown this past decade. Universities find that distance education really is looked at fondly and more individuals are choosing to further their education by using the online learning tools. The majority of people have said it’s very beneficial to both students and schools. Others will argue that online learning has many disadvantages but the online curriculum has grown tremendously. Online learning definitely has its advantages. The advantage that is most often talked about is convenience. A student can work around their own schedule and can work from almost anywhere that offers computer or internet access. Online learning can also be a little easier on your bank account since the tuition is oftentimes lower since you avoid residential costs as well as the cost to commute. Online learning can also have its downfalls. A student that may be interested in the social aspect of the college experience, will not have the opportunity that traditional learners will receive. The only communication with other students or professors will be through email, discussion forums or chat rooms. There will be no face to face interaction. Many individuals find they do not have the time it takes to attend the traditional college. This is why so many people are starting to turn