Monday, November 10, 2014

Overcoming Your Fears of Online Learning


Beth A. Coyle

Associate Vice President of Academic Affairs


Since I work closely with the online programs offered at The College of Westchester (CW), I am naturally sensitive to the fears that prevent students from enrolling in online degree programs.

·         I don’t know anything about computers
Most of us use computers, tablets, and smart phones to access emails, check our social sites, and communicate.  Using technology for education is a bit different, but if you can follow directions, you will be able to turn your device into your classroom with little difficulty.  At CW we hold Online Orientation which allows students to become familiar with and practice using the technology including our Learning Management System (LMS).   

Many online programs use an LMS to deliver courses.  When students log onto their “portals” they are able to see the online courses that they are enrolled in, and complete assignments.  CW has a variety of learning activities that help students achieve their course learning objectives through the use of videos, lectures, reading assignments, and discussion boards.

Like any technology, once you have become comfortable, logging on and completing work will seem to be second nature.  And if you still need help, CW gives students access to help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

·         It’s been so long since I’ve been in school
Many adult learners worry that they have forgotten how to read, write, or study, since they haven’t applied these skills in a while.  Others were not successful in high school and feel nervous about college-level courses.  At CW, Success Coaches and Academic Advisors help students transition back to school and keep them on track to persist and graduate. 

·         I don’t have the time
Many of our successful online students and graduates have full-time jobs, family members who depend on them, and additional obligations.  CW Online courses provide students with the needed flexibility.  Most of my online students complete their assignments after their children have gone to bed, in the early morning hours before work begins, or on weekends.

·         I’m not a good writer
Writing comes naturally for some, but requires some training for others.  At CW, help with writing is only a click away with online tutoring.  Services are free for CW students and in addition to writing support, online tutoring covers a number of other subjects as well. Our online students and faculty report that our students’ writing skills improve with increased use of these tutoring services.

·         I need a “real person” there to help me
I encourage my students to ask for help.  Even if I am not the person who can provide assistance, I will know who can. 

CW Faculty, academic advisors, success coaches, financial aid advisors, and other administrators provide a caring and supportive environment and are available by phone, email, video conference calls, and yes, even in person. 

Taking the steps to overcome and enroll in an online program can be frightening.  You can be successful by researching and using the resources offered by colleges.  Finding a good fit for services and resources is just as important as finding the program that best suits desired career goals. 

1 comment:

  1. Thanks Beth! If a student has a goal, really wants it and is willing to try something new to achieve it online learning just may be the way to go. If you take advantage of all that CW has to offer in the way of embracing this new way of learning you must might like it! Why not go for it?

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