Take a minute to think about all the things you’ve heard about online learning. There are a lot of benefits — online courses tend to be more affordable, flexible, and on your schedule! But what about some of the online learning myths you hear about? Are they even true?
Today, we’re debunking some of your most common online learning myths! Whether you’re worried about teachers, outdated content, or your learning preferences in an online classroom, we’ll dig into what’s true (and what’s not) so you can decide how online learning fits into your degree.
“Good teachers don’t teach online”
One online learning myth we hear all the time is that you won’t get great teachers or that faculty qualifications are lower with online learning. That couldn’t be further from the truth!
The reality is that many online programs give students access to world-renowned faculty who might otherwise be out of reach due to location or demand!
At StraighterLine, our faculty are given additional training to make sure their methods are just as impactful online. Our faculty is made up of academic leaders who design courses to match the quality colleges and universities expect, and ensure every lesson is just as engaging as a classroom experience.
“I won’t get as good of an education”
Some students worry that they won’t get a high-quality education online. When the courses are designed well, that’s simply not the case.
By combining evidence-based education with interactive techniques, StraighterLine courses are ACE-recommended and offer students the chance to learn and interact with course material just like they would in a traditional classroom. Students experience instruction that’s as effective as in-person teaching and even get additional benefits like on-demand tutoring and the opportunity to rewatch lessons — both of which wouldn’t be possible in an in-person classroom.
“It’s harder to focus with online learning”
Another concern students have with online learning is that their course won’t be interactive or flat-out boring. And it’s a valid concern! There are real limitations to how you can engage online, and not all students have a learning preference that’s compatible with online education.
When designed with intention, online learning has the potential to be super engaging — especially when you consider all the tools at your disposal!
At StraighterLine, students benefit from interactive techniques and learning tools that turn passive watching into active participation. Each of our courses is quality-tested with story-driven videography that makes complex topics more memorable. And with digital whiteboarding technology, you’ll be able to follow ideas just like you would in person — if not better.
“I won’t get to work with other people”
Worried about crickets in the classroom?
Traditional learning does come with perks like more collaboration and the chance to connect with peers. But there are plenty of ways that you can connect with other students in online learning — even if you’re joining in on a self-paced course.
Tools like discussion boards and VoiceThread can help students connect asynchronously. Many online programs also offer collaborative group work and interactive assignments so you can work as a team from anywhere in the world.
Some online learning programs offer courses that allow for virtual meetings, group projects, and personalized feedback so you can directly engage with people in your course.
“I won’t get to meet people, either”
When you take classes online, you might think you’re missing out on the community of a traditional university. But meeting other students is completely possible!
Interactive technologies and online communities can help you build real relationships with other people in your program from anywhere in the world. Check if your institution offers virtual events for a chance to meet other students in an informal setting.
And if you’re still seeking in-person connections, you might look for Meetups, Facebook groups, or open events at a local school. While you won’t necessarily be taking on the same coursework, you can still relate over the student experience and hold each other accountable.
“There are some classes you just can’t take online.”
Kitchen chemistry lab? At-home microbiology experiment? You bet.
We get a lot of questions about how our more hands-on courses like science labs work online.
All of StraighterLine’s science labs include online lab materials combined with at-home lab kits to provide students with an immersive, hands-on learning experience. Online students have never had more opportunities to interact with their projects without ever setting foot in a science lab.
“I’m not technical enough for online learning.”
If you’re not confident with your digital literacy (or even if you are) you might have doubts about the tech of learning online. Learning the material is challenging enough — the uncertainty of an online classroom can be overwhelming!
That’s why StraighterLine’s classroom is designed to be easy. Seriously.
You’ll get the technology you need for interactive learning without unnecessary features. Expect practical, real-world tools, easy integration into learning management systems, and no steep learning curve.
Our courses also come with tech support and support for unique tools so you won’t get left behind.
“I’ve tried online learning and I didn’t like the tech.”
We understand many students have other experiences with online learning. And you might have your doubts, especially if you’ve taken courses with outdated content, clunky dashboards, or other technical challenges.
StraighterLine has addressed that by creating a modern dashboard. With smooth navigation and clear course design, you can find all the classes you enroll in in one easy place. Curious what StraighterLine looks like on the inside?
Check out the StraighterLine Free Preview to get a feel for the Student Dashboard and get a feel for what the online learning experience is really like.
“The material will be out of date or out of touch”
The final online learning myth? That the course materials will be out of date or out of touch.
StraighterLine courses are regularly updated and focus on helping students learn the material and build real-world skills. Plus, expert feedback can help you apply the material with current professional standards.
What are some online learning myths you've heard?
Online learning has come a long way—and myths just don’t hold up with all that’s possible!
With innovative technology, online education can be as powerful and great for your career as any classroom experience. Ready to see for yourself?
Explore our courses and see how online learning can help you save time and money on getting your college degree.
