Re: online programs - your view

["Henry J. Wicko II" <henry -dot- wicko -at- gmail -dot- com>]

 Shelly,

I have taken the leap you are considering and did have the same concerns as
you.  I recently enrolled in an online undergrad TW certificate program (I
already have a B.A. in English and have been in the TW field since I
graduated in 1999) and am finishing up the last two weeks of my first 12
week class.  Here are some of my thoughts for you on your post.

I have found that it takes more time to accomplish class assignments than I
originally thought.  I have chapters to read, weekly class discussion topics
to answer concerning the reading, as well as weekly assignments.  Let's not
forget the class project we are expected to deliver at the end of our
class.  We use Blackboard as our e-learning application, of which I find
easy to use.  My discussion board is active and a good forum for
communications, and we also use a group page for peer reviews of our class
project and weekly assignments.  There is class discussion, peer reviewing,
group activity, and of course feedback from the instructor, all activities
found in a classroom experience, except it is just done online.

I do know some distance learning programs require campus time (weekend MBAs
for sure, but not positive about a TC MA), so keep that in mind while you
research.

The main reason I chose to enroll in my online program is because I could
not find a local program that suits my learning path, nor did any other
programs (Masters and others) have specifically what I wanted.  As Gordon
stated earlier, there may not be a local program you can enroll in, hence
the distance learning.  I also concur with Simon that continuing education
shows ambition and hope a prospective employer recognizes and values that.

Additionally, think of the portfolio you will walk away with.  A thesis on a
TC topic, a usability project, a group-developed strategy plan, an online
class using XXX program, or what have you.  As if the added knowledge is not
enough?!?!

HTH

Henry
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