[Video] Debunking myths with interesting facts about online education
Misconceptions about online learning are everywhere.
Online learning is on the rise, but there remain a lot of questions surrounding it. Let’s debunk five common online education myths with true, interesting facts about the reality of education in an online environment, especially at institutions like the University of Louisville (UofL).
Myth #1 - “Online degrees don’t have the same value as traditional degrees.”
The truth is, online degrees are real degrees. Studies, including one completed by the Department of Education, find that there is no significant difference in learning outcomes when compared to face-to-face programs. You may wonder, “What will employers think about an online degree?” At UofL, you receive the same degree online as you would on campus, with no indication of course format on your diploma. In other words, employers won’t know how you earned your degree unless you choose to tell them. Plus, most employers value the time management skills that online students must master to balance education with work, family life and other priorities.
Myth #2 - “Online students are not held to the same standards as traditional students.”
According to the U.S. News and World Report, job recruiters are more concerned about the legitimacy of the institution you receive your education from than the format of your program. One important part of this is the accreditation of your chosen university. New programs at universities like UofL undergo a thorough review process before approval in order to ensure that their online degrees meet the same high standards as their face-to-face degrees. Feeling secure in where you earn your education will give you confidence as you pursue career advancement.
Myth #3 - “Online classes are easier than traditional classes.”
An online program is a simpler, abbreviated version of a traditional program, right? Wrong. In an online program at UofL, you will have the same expectations, the same courses and the same faculty as you would on campus. You are expected to engage and work toward the same curriculum as the equivalent on-campus programs. Group projects, proctored tests and field assignments can be accomplished in an online setting too. The format may look different, but that doesn’t make it any easier.
Myth #4 - “You have to teach yourself.”
You aren’t physically sitting in a classroom, but that doesn’t mean you’re in this alone. Technology is a beautiful thing. In an online classroom setting, your teachers will communicate regularly through videos, discussion boards, group work, interactive activities, assignment responses, and more. They’re also available by email and for scheduled one-on-one appointments, as needed.
Myth #5 - “It’s hard to build a network in an online setting.”
In an increasingly competitive job market, the relationships you build throughout your education are essential. You can still make important connections with other students in an online setting. Online students are often working adults, returning to start or finish their bachelor’s degree or earn an advanced education through a master’s degree or certificate. In fact, many graduates of UofL’s online programs worked for Fortune 500 companies while earning their education. Because of the unique life and job experience the typical online student brings to the classroom with them, these connections are even more invaluable. At UofL, these experiences are often integrated into the lessons, allowing you to learn directly from your peers. You’ll also have the opportunity to network beyond your local area, with online students at UofL coming from across Kentucky and around the world.
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If these interesting facts about online education helped you realize online learning would fit your life, take the next step with confidence at UofL. We offer more 50+ online bachelor’s, master’s and certificates across a variety of fields and industries, all designed to help you take the next step in you education with confidence and ease. Visit our site for more information and to get started today!
family or friends to sit in a classroom when you’d otherwise be at dinner or attending your kid’s t-ball game. Don’t choose between going to class or wrapping up that big project at work. With online programs, you really can do it all.
local community spreading the word about the online programs offered at UofL, and helping others understand what online learning is, what value it can bring to the lives of the adult learner or non-traditional student and assists those ready to take the next step in their education to find the right program for them. 