Do you want to go to college, but- for whatever reason -don’t have the time?

With so much new technology andthe proliferation of the Internet,

you can!Many colleges now offer online courses that only requirea computer and reliable Internet connection.

Now that you’re not restricted to a local area,you can literally “go” anywhere. But make surethe school you choose is accredited.

Accreditation: Certification by an outside authority that thecollege or university meets certain standards in regards toits quality of education.

If you’re planning on transferring to a universitylater, this is especially important! Some collegesand universities will not accept transfer creditsfrom unaccredited schools.

Checking for Accreditation

Step 1: Check the school’s website for a list of itscredentials. Take note of the accreditation bodiesit names.

Step 2: Cross-check those names with the Councilfor Higher Education Accreditation’s list ofaccaccreditation bodies recognized by it and the U.S.Department of Education.

So you’ve found your school!But enrolling is theeasy part.

Although online courses makeattending classes much easier,it also presents a number ofchallenges.

Before signing on, take note ofthese tips for success.

Check Your Tech Specs Make a list of the technical requirements and check — anddouble-check — that you have everything else you need, such as:

Computer with internet connection

Printer

Word processing software

WWeb cam

Some programs, like IT or graphic design

courses, require more hardware, software

or advanced computer specs.

When in doubt, ask the instructor!

Familiarize Yourself With the Tools

Online courses often have centralized “boards”where students can gather and receive learningmaterials. Navigate through the system andmake sure you know how to use everythingbefore you begin the course.

Don’t Assume Your Teacher Is a Computer Too

Just because the class is online doesn’t meanthat the teacher isn’t involved. Communicateearly and often with your instructor — askquestions if you don’t understand something ina lecture or need guidance on an assignment.

Refrain from Online SlangIt may be the Internet, but you shouldn’t write likeyou’re commenting on someone’s Facebook posts.

Whether you are emailing the instructor or postinga message on the discussion board, use propergrammar, correct spelling and capitalization.

Set a ScheduleWhen you sign up for an online course, you mustdedicate time to it. Don’t just assume you’ll fit it inwhenever — otherwise, you run the risk of not doingit at all.

If you’re a busy parent and/or have a full-time job, findingthe time can be difficult.

Determine how any hours you’ll need per day (or per week)to keep up with the course.

With that number in mind, examine your current scheduleand rearrange it accordingly.

If you have a family, sit down with them anddiscuss the arrangement (but make sure youdiscuss it with your partner ahead of time!).

If you are employed full time and the onlinecourse may affect your work schedule,discuss it with your boss.

Set Up Your Space

In addition to a strict schedule, the space inwhich you follow the online course plays abig part in its success. Constantly changingyour work environment — reclining on thecouch, sitting at the kitchen table — canmamake it hard to stay concentrated.

Choose a Quiet Environment

Select a room that no one in the house willpass through, such as a study or bedroom.Make sure your housemates know not todisturb you at that time.

With these tips and your motivaton,successful online learningis just a click away.

For more information, visit http://arapahoe.edu