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Making the decision to pursue an online program can be intimidating for students. Online Learning Lessons offers tips and advice from online students and educators on everything from finding a program and paying for it to what happens after enrolling. Got a question? Email onlinelearninglessons@usnews.com.
"Look into whether you will need a webcam and microphone for online courses in real time" inform Chris Foley, assistant vice president and director of online education at Indiana University and Jan Holloway, writer and editor for the office of online education at Indiana University.
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| Prospective online students should also research whether their online coursework will be accessible via mobile devices. Photo: PeopleImages/Getty Images |
Technology smarts matter, whether you're studying on campus or online. But as an online student, technology inherently plays an even greater role in your coursework.
Knowing from the outset what technology is required can boost your chances of success. Here are four things to look into as you prepare for the semester.
1. Online course structure: Is your program asynchronous or synchronous? Your answer will have broad implications on the technology you'll need.
1. Online course structure: Is your program asynchronous or synchronous? Your answer will have broad implications on the technology you'll need.
In asynchronous programs, where students work mostly at
their own pace but may have to meet weekly deadlines, you log into an
e-learning environment when it's convenient, download documents and
participate in discussion boards
throughout the week. In some cases, you may need to record or watch
presentations, but you can do this offline whenever you wish.
[Discover how to decide between live and self-paced online courses.]
Synchronous learning, or participating in class in real time, means relying more on videoconferencing and chat. You'll need to install a video delivery program like Adobe Connect or Zoom, which may require greater internet speed. You may also need a webcam, microphone, audio recording software and video capture software.
2. Hardware, software and internet: Be sure your technology equipment is up to the task.
Some online schools like Duquesne University
provide specific hardware and software requirements and recommendations
for online students' devices. Universities may also have resources
similar to Indiana University's IUware, where you can download common software, such as Office 365, for coursework at no cost.
Also determine the type and speed of internet connection you'll need. This can be particularly important for synchronous classes.
Also determine the type and speed of internet connection you'll need. This can be particularly important for synchronous classes.
Read more...
Recommended Reading
Ask 5 Questions to Choose the Right Online MPA Program by Jordan Friedman, Editor.
Recommended Reading
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| Because community is an important part of public administration, experts recommend looking into how students interact in an online program. Photo: Hero Images/Getty Images |
Source: U.S. News & World Report
