If you've thought about experimenting with virtual learning, you've likely wondered how to choose a reputable school. Brian Mueller, vice president and chief operating officer of the University of Phoenix Online shares some advice on finding an online school worth attending.
Try Before You Buy
Look for organizations that offer some type of free demo. This will let you see how a company conducts its online courses and if the medium is right for you.
Start Small
If you're wary of the online learning experience, don't jump into a degree program. Take a single class first. You'll learn about the experience's rhythm and style before getting in too deep.
Go with an Established Name
Check to see how long a school's been in the business. For example, the University of Phoenix has been around since 1978 and has a physical presence in 21 states. Long-established colleges and universities are now making forays into online learning, offering both extension courses and degree-granting programs online.
Check the Better Business Bureau Online
An online venture can register with the online branch of the Better Business Bureau.
According to its Web site, "The BBBOnline Reliability [seal] provides [the consumer] an easy way to distinguish reliable Web sites and online services while promoting consumer trust and confidence online."
A BBBOnline seal shows that a Web site has been in operation for more than a year and has a good record of customer satisfaction. It's important to note that a BBBOnline seal may indicate a good track record, but the lack of a seal doesn't indicate a poor track record. It may simply mean the online company chose not to register its site.
Check for Accreditation
There are many fine online schools that do not grant degrees. If you are considering a degree, however, the accreditation confirmation you would do for a brick-and-mortar school applies to online programs as well.
Check That There Is an Instructor
Many online learning companies offer online tutorials, which Mueller terms "media-driven." While these may be fine for some students, he notes that it's important to know before you buy if you'll be able to contact an instructor if you need further assistance.
Explore a School's Technology
Mueller reassures potential students that once they get comfortable with the technology, online learning is the same as in-person learning, just in another medium. That said, it's important to choose a school that uses technology with which you are comfortable. Also find out if your computer can handle various technologies. According to the University of Phoenix, even broadband home connections can't effectively deliver high-end features like whiteboards and voice streaming.
Make Contact
"Any place we can verify for a student that we are doing what we say we do is a plus," says Mueller. Have schools put you in touch with students and instructors to learn what the experience is really like.
Look for Support Services
Beyond the in-class interaction of peers and instructors, you may want additional online resources, like a reference library, teacher conferences and study groups. It all depends on what you are learning. Don't forget to ask.
Make Sure They Have a Good Technical Staff
Online learning requires reliable systems at the provider end, but glitches are inevitable. Good tech support can ensure that when the system goes down, it will be returned to working order with the least disruption possible. Ask how frequently the system fails and how quickly the tech staff responds to student concerns.
When to Move On
You know when you're getting vague answers or marketing speak. A school's customer service should be prepared to respond to legitimate concerns. If you ask direct questions and don't get satisfactory answers, start checking out the next school on your list.
If you're skeptical about online learning, do your research and advance with caution. Asking a few pointed questions and exploring sites for valuable features may be all it takes to ensure a rewarding online learning experience.
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