There are many opinions circulating about the usefulness of online degrees or if they are even to be given a second look. Some say a degree is a degree while others are more concerned with the name of the institution where the degree was obtained or of course if it was online or through a regular brick and mortar school. Some of the questions that we should be asking include if the curriculum are the same, the grading structure and type of discussions that are being had during classes. In truth, if the curriculum and grading structures are the same, it really boils down to the level of discussions being had in class. Are they high level discussions that include real life experiences from knowledgeable and experienced participants? Are the questions being asked challenging you or prompting you to do additional research or to seek expert advise? Are the discussions more relatable and realistic and practical than the ones you read about in the textbook? This is one of the main components that makes learning worthwhile and that makes one degree program more effective than others. While discussions based on hypothetical situations or case studies are useful, they often have a predetermined solution that may not fit every context. This of course is different for mathematical problems. In the end, it comes back to the quality of conversations which then develop and inspire informed research papers that translate into bright,competent and innovative leaders in the workplace. It is then safe to say that having a mixture of individuals of various experience levels, cultural backgrounds and gender will make for a more edifying experience. Imagine hearing the views of someone with 20 years experience versus 2 or none and comparing them to the textbook approach. It is inevitable that new ideas will spring forth and old ideas remodeled or given more serious thought. Sometimes learning is all about context and finding ways to make information work for you.
The Hangups With Online Degrees
Of course, most people commit to a degree programs with career advancement in mind. It goes without saying that we want to earn more money and become senior leaders at our places of business or entrepreneurs. This is where it might be a little tricky with online degrees. If you're a newbie looking to work at a top fortune 500 company, a degree from a school that is not highly recognized or regionally accredited may not help to push your application forward On the other hand, experience will. The idea is that wherever you might fall short, make it up. Do not embellish your resume but highlight your achievements and ensure that your personal traits stand out. Give them no valid reason to push you aside based on your education.
Unfortunately, we live in a world where what you have on paper is heavily scrutinized versus what you can offer but at the end of the day, it's better to have something legitimate on paper than nothing at all.
That awkward moment when someone asks you where you studied and then goes on to say "I've never heard of it..." with a questioning gaze. Most of us have never heard of 90% of the universities around the world so what's your point?
Of course online degrees can either work to limit or broaden your networking capabilities, depending on how you look at it. Naturally, there may not be a lot of people or anyone within your city to network with but think of the connections you can make out of state or globally. It's all about mindset and where you want to be.
Finally, there will be naysayers. This is guaranteed regardless of what you choose to do in life. People will tell you not to waste your money or time because an online degree will not be recognized and it will not give you the sort of leverage that you're looking for. While there might be some truth there, online degrees are becoming even more recognized now than ever before. Not just degrees but online short course or certifications. We are in a technologically savvy world where there is a growing need for people who are sharp and can multitask. No one multi tasks like an online student. You are not just learning theory based knowledge. You are learning technologies, cultural intelligence, and lifelong business and real life applications and solutions that you would not have otherwise been privy to. Understand all of this and use it to your advantage.
Why An Online Degree Is Worth It
It gives you the chance to have discussions with people from all over the world with varying levels of exposure and experiences that you will definitely learn from.
When you step into the office brandishing your hard earned online degree, especially if you are only one who decided to further your studies in an area of the business that has promotion written all over it, who do you think will be promoted?
You get to learn at your own pace. Even though there are deadlines for everything, online degrees give you the liberty to stretch your entire degree program over a longer period of time while still having and maintaining a life.
Can we talk about how much more cost effective online studying can be? Seriously. It takes you time and money. There are even scholarships and grants available for those who study online.
You learn more skills. You learn a wide variety of skills that help you to become more equipped to handle the cultural dynamics of your workplace and also to become more well adjusted in this global economy. You learn to organize well and become an effective communicator which undoubtedly will help you to better navigate the workplace. Is an online degree worth it? The fact is, that's a question that we each have to answer for ourselves depending on our goals and lifestyle. If you are enrolled in an online program or any program and you feel as if you are missing out on quality discussions, let your student advisor know. At the end of the day we are responsible for our own learning and we must do what we can to get the best experience out of it. Thanks for reading. Check out my previous blog about studying for an MBA online. Also feel free to check out my books. Interested in sharing your experience on my blog? Contact me here and I will submit your article. Leave a comment and subscribe. It's free! ReplyForward
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