Pros and Cons of Online Schools for K-12 Students

Traditionally thought of as a venue for undergraduate and graduate students to pursue a degree-or for established professionals to enrich their careers-online schools are touted for their convenience, accessibility and cost-savings for busy adults. But online school programs for kids are also quickly becoming a staple in K-12 education.

As part of its action plan for the class of 2020, the State Educational Technology Directors Association (SETDA) identifies the crucial role that online schools play for children in grades K-12.

In its study, "Learning Virtually: Expanding Opportunities," SETDA reports that as of November 2008, 44 states had online learning programs. And a 2004-2005 survey found that 37 percent of school districts provided access to online education, with public high schools showing the highest levels of online school enrollment.

How to Know if Online Colleges are Right for you

There are quite a few angles to this topic but i want to address it in the way it is supposed to. More than half of those people  who are planning to enroll for an online college are usually undecided and somehow confused. The biggest question i guess is usually, "Will my degree be recognised" plus a few other questions.

I wish to address a few other things before i jump into this topic. First you need to look at your options in relations to where you are and your environment. For instance, if you are outside the US or other developed countries, it is very difficult to get recognized after you complete your online degree, this is because of corruption and conduct. Most of employers want your report from chancellors or school board in order to know your character.

Am not selling anything here so this is purely my opinion and you can differ with it if you like. But if you are justing doing your first degree,  i wouldn't recommend you do it online. Online degrees are best for people who are advancing their careers or just want to get another degree. It is very wise to seek guidance from professionals before jumping into it.

What you should consider before choosing online schooling

Back in the 90s when internet was still a new thing to many, even the term 'studying online was not warmly welcomed especially by school administrators and education experts. Although a few of them had already predicted that it be useful in the future, it still wasn't going to work at that time.

As the population grows and other modern day challenges arise, more people are not considering an option to get their education online. The best part is that technology and innovation has now made it possible for even young to study online and there are great schools and materials to help them.

But as you consider an option to get that bachelors, masters or any other education, here are some advantages and disadvantages to consider.

The Pros

No time and money wasted in travelling

This is basically self explanatory, if you live in in a country half way across the world, then that 2000 or so dollars you will use for your air ticket to attend a school in another country will be saved. Unless you really have the cash and doesn't need to study online.

Convenient

If you have a job, then online schooling is perfect for you, it is actually better than part time schooling since you can manage your own time.

No more classmates to mind of

When you decide to study online, the classroom is all yours. And you don't have to fight on your seat, you don't have to get along with a group, and you don't have to be nice or rude to others.

Duration is shorter

Most online schools offer a much shorter period of study when compared to regular classes and this can make a huge difference especially if you are waiting for that job promotion after graduation.


The Cons

Finding an Accredited school

The biggest concern here is would you be able to find a job after you graduate? There are many online schools out there that promise to give you the best online education there is in the globe but they are not recognized. To find the best online school read Here

Personal Effort/Competence

If you are not a self motivator and you lack proper discipline, then online school is not for you, some students do well when they study alone but some just don't get it. If you still insist on studying online and you know its hard, pay someone to guide you.

Environment

This is basic , but you need to ask yourself, Is your home fit for studying? Can you be able to concentrate if at there are disruption around you? you will realize that online schooling needs more attention than a regular class, that's why you need a good and quiet environment to study in.

Cost of Internet Connection

If you have a crappy internet connection then you are in for trouble, online schooling needs a good speed internet and that means you have to invest a little bit more. Some classes will require video streaming which don't always work well with  simple connections.