Online degree programs come in a variety of types, from strictly-scheduled degrees for traditional students to self-paced programs for working adults. Classes usually communicate and submit assignments through special education software.
Online Degree Program Options and Types
The spectrum of online degree programs begins with hybrid programs, which are taught partly online and partly through in-person lectures or tests. These programs, along with some online programs, are set on a course schedule that resembles a traditional degree program in many ways and is usually designed for traditional students rather than working adults. Assignments and tests often have set due dates, and students are required to submit their work and participate in class discussions on a regular basis.
The other end of the online degree spectrum is often found in continuing education courses or college degrees for working adults. These courses may not have a set end date, much less due dates for assignments or tests. Often, these programs allow students to work whenever they desire and take as long as necessary to complete each class and, ultimately, their degree.
Most online degree programs fall somewhere between these two extremes, usually operating on a semester system that requires students to turn in all assignments by a particular semester-end date, but allowing students to work at their own pace in the mean time to complete assignments and tests.
What to Expect From Online Classes
Online classes use a variety of means for communication, including email, class forums and message boards, instant messengers and at times voice or video conferencing. Many times, online classes use specially designed education software that incorporates some or all of these features into a single package that can be accessed from a web browser. This gives students access to a centralized set of message boards through which they can communicate with the rest of their class, gives teachers a built-in email system for communicating with students and passing out or reviewing assignments and provides an automated testing and grading system for some types of assignments.
Usually, online classes have some form of participation requirement, both for the purpose of keeping students from becoming isolated, and for building teamwork within a class to help solve problems and reinforce key concepts. This participation requirement may take the form of a posting requirement on the class boards or it may mean class assignments in which students must work together.
