Myth #1 - Distance learning schools aren’t as good as traditional schools.

Online colleges can offer as good an education as any traditional school. Check with your local association of Private Career Colleges to make sure the school you’re looking at is registered – if it is, you can be sure that college has had to go through rigorous approval processes. Many quality programs allow students to interact with expert instructors as well as learn online. Online learning can help students develop skills, build a portfolio, and advance in their careers.

Myth #2 – Online Learning is Easy

Just like traditional schools, some online institutions are known for being easier and others are known for being harder. Because of the nature of online classes with so much reading, students need to go into an online class knowing that the class will require as much, if not more time and effort as any traditional class.

Myth #3 – I only need to log on once a week

In most cases, it would be impossible to take in all the material in a single sitting. Most online courses take between 10 and 20 hours a week, and some more intensive programs could be more. It is important to maintain contact by logging in several times a week.

Myth #4 – It is OK to Procrastinate

Online students must be self-disciplined and motivated learners who can take responsibility for completing assignments on time and meeting set deadlines. With nobody standing at your shoulder to enforce deadlines, online students must be able to manage their own time. Late assignments are not acceptable online any more than in class.

Myth #5 – I won’t have a personal connection with my instructor

Actually, online students say they feel more connected to their instructors than they have in classrooms. Students have commented that the online environment feels like someone is “always there” instead of at limited set times. Plus, you can always call your instructor on the phone.