Defending Your Online Degree

While a recent study by Eduventures, Inc. revealed that 62 percent of employers had a favorable attitude toward distance learning and the view the value of online education as being equal to or greater than that of traditional face-to-face instruction, many people might still be hesitant to enroll in an online program, thinking that some might perceive an online degree as being less substantial than a degree earned at a "brick-and-mortar" institution.

For those that might be concerned about the perception of an online degree, distance learning does hold intrinsic merits that can help to convince potential naysayers.

Here are four ways in which one can communicate the value of an online degree to potential employers.

1. I earned my online degree from an accredited institution.
   
   Online schools must go through the same rigorous review as traditional schools to receive accreditation, which is the gold standard for judging the educational value provided by a college or university. To become accredited, online schools must undergo five primary phases of review:
   
   • Self-Study: the institution prepares a written summary of its performance based on the standards set forth by the accrediting agency.
   • Peer Review: faculty, administrators and members of the public conduct a review of the institution's educational standards and policies.
   • Site Visit: the accrediting agency sends a team of volunteers to review the institution in person.
   • Judgment: after the various review phases, the accrediting agency's commission makes its final decision regarding the institution's accredited status.
   • Monitoring and Oversight: the accrediting agency will conduct routine reviews of the institution to ensure that education standards are maintained.
   
   If you want to know more, read more information about going to an accredited online school.
2. My online degree demonstrates my time-management skills and ability to work independently.
   With the flexibility and convenience afforded by an online education comes a lack of the structure provided by traditional schools. To successfully complete a distance learning program requires dedication and the ability to manage one's time well - two very important attributes for employers. Because of the flexibility offered by most distance learning courses, students must be able to create their own structure and demonstrate the ability to prioritize and plan in a primarily self-directed learning environment. Those who are unable to direct their own studies to some degree often flounder without face-to-face contact with an instructor to keep them on track.
3. My online degree shows that I have excellent communication and teamwork skills.
   While there is a certain degree of self-directed study for those pursuing an online degree, the lack of face-to-face communications actually requires the ability to communicate and work with others well. Online courses often include group projects through which the students must find a way to work together in a virtual world. In addition, because most communication is in writing, distance learning demands one to hone his or her ability to express or persuade others clearly and effectively with the written word. The nature of distance learning also requires more frequent communications than face-to-face programs of study - because the instructor does not physically see the students in class, they must demonstrate their involvement in other ways.
4. My online degree has enhanced my experience with the latest technology and software applications.
   When taking an online course, one's ability to use a computer as well as an array of applications is a necessity. In today's global environment, business is often conducted in a virtual conference room, either by teleconferencing or video or web conferencing - all technologies utilized by distance learning. Being familiar with these technologies will help set you apart from many of your peers and position you as one who can conduct business in today's technological age.