6 Common Myths About Online Education

Online education is a relatively new form of learning. Because of its general unfamiliarity, some people may be hesitant to participate in online learning over a traditional, campus-based atmosphere.

Fortunately, the realities of online education do not disappoint. This article highlights some of the myths of online education in an attempt to ease the anxiety of new students.

Common Myths

1. Reduced faculty – There may be a tendency to think that online education means that a select few institutions and instructors educate the majority of the world’s learners. While some professors do open their classes to large numbers of students, many courses cap student enrollment to a couple dozen students per session. With this in mind, online courses may instead see a need for more, rather than fewer, teachers to accommodate increased levels of online student enrollment.
2. Courses are largely the same – Online education does not mean a mixture of course offerings. Rather, each institution is typically free to craft courses in whichever way it sees fit. Some professors may opt for text-heavy readings and lecture slides. Others may embrace different forms of media and invite students to use current technology to interact with other course participants in interesting ways. Just as with traditional university courses, online courses bear the mark of their creators.
3. Lower quality – Others may believe that traditional students receive an inherently better education than online students. Nothing could be further from the truth. The ability to learn is independent of delivery style, and strong students can be recognized regardless of education method.
4. Strong computer skills are mandatory – Online education is not reserved for those with detailed knowledge of computing technology. Many online courses make use of web technologies that simplify interactions and allow students of all tech levels to succeed. For those who still feel a bit intimidated, there are often free dedicated hotlines and other resources for tips and support.
5. You will never see the campus – Some students may worry that online education means detachment from the university offering the courses. While often not a requirement for course completion, such students may be pleased to hear that there are often options to combine online coursework with traditional classroom experience. Even without taking a course in person, online students generally have access to the same campus resources as traditional students.
6. Online courses lack personal attention – There is no difference between an online professor and a classroom one. Many professors embrace online learning and actively seek ways to make their courses more engaging and personal for their students. For students interested in getting to know other students, course web interfaces often include either chat functions or forums.

More Information

Online education at Villanova University is designed to help students of all backgrounds, experiences and viewpoints succeed in obtaining quality education that mirrors traditional offerings and opens the door to further career advancement. For additional information about Villanova’s 100% online programs, access a complimentary program brochure or call to speak with a representative.