Is an Online Teaching Degree Hard? Pros and Cons
An online teaching degree can present both benefits and challenges. Compare pros and cons with tips like enrolling in self-paced courses and setting a routine.
Thinking about getting an online teaching degree? You may be wondering what the learning environment is like and what challenges you might run into. So, how hard is it to complete a teaching degree online?
Getting an online teaching degree may be harder for some students and easier for others. Whether you find online learning hard or easy can depend on various factors, including your learning style, organizational skills, and any work and life commitments you may have.
Keep reading for more information.
Is an Online Teaching Degree Hard?
Both 'hard' and 'easy' are subjective terms. What one student finds hard may be incredibly easy for another. To help you determine whether an online teaching degree will be hard or easy for you, considering the following lists of pros and cons to getting your degree online:
Pros of Online Teaching Degrees
There are many benefits to getting your degree online. Some of the potential pros include:
- Flexible schedule: online degrees typically offer a lot more flexibility than traditional degrees; many even allow you to progress through the courses at your own pace or decide when and where to complete assignments.
- Better networking opportunities: Students from all over the world participate in online degree programs. You will have the potential to meet more people and find out about more opportunities than you would in an in-person program.
- Accessible learning: Because of the flexibility of online programs, they are more accessible for older adults, people with disabilities, busy working parents, and other nontraditional students.
- Lower costs: Many online degree programs cost less than traditional programs because you don't have to pay for room and board and various fees won't apply to you. At some schools, online tuition costs are lower as well.
Cons of Online Teaching Degrees
Though getting your teaching degree online has many benefits, there are a few drawbacks as well. The cons of studying online include:
- Increased technical requirements: Online degree programs require reliable access to a computer and a consistent internet connection, as well as some basic technological skills. Those who don't have these devices and capabilities will have a very hard time completing an online degree.
- Possibility of distractions: If you are a parent or live with other people, you may find that distractions at home make it hard to study and complete online assignments.
- Less structure: Because of their largely self-directed nature, online degree programs provide much less structure than traditional programs. This means you will need to be self-motivated and have strong time-management skills.
- Less support: Many online students feel isolated from their professors and peers. They may struggle with finding the help they need if they feel they don't have easy access to these people and the resources they can provide.
How To Make an Online Teaching Degree Easier
Decided that you're going to give online learning a try? Let's talk about some things that can make your life easier as you pursue your online teaching degree:
Establish a Routine
Though online courses are usually flexible, many students find that they have an easier time working through their assignments if they set a routine and stick to it. Experiment with studying at different times or places until you find a routine that works for you.
Change Up Your Learning Environment
If you're having trouble dealing with the distractions at home, try studying at the library or your local coffee shop, or go to a friend or family member's house where you'll have access to more peace and quiet. Again, you may have to change things up several times before you find what works for you.
Enroll in Self-Paced Courses
Though many online courses are self-paced, some schools offer online classes with more rigid deadlines and class periods. This may work for you if you need structure; on the other hand, if you're a busy parent or have to fit your schooling around a work schedule, you're most likely to find success by choosing entirely self-paced courses.
Seek Tutoring
If you struggle with any of the course materials or need additional support, seek out tutoring services either through your school or through outside sources. Having a tutor can provide a level of structure and help you navigate any difficult subjects or assignments.
Reward Yourself
Finally, allow yourself to enjoy your accomplishments. Consider going out to dinner after passing a tough test or take some time off when you complete a difficult course. Rewarding yourself will help you stay motivated to keep going and will give you something to look forward to as you work toward your degree.
How To Decide Whether an Online Teaching Degree Is Right for You
Not sure whether you should pursue an online or in-person degree program? Let's talk about how you can decide on the right type of teaching degree for you.
Evaluate Your Career Goals and Skill Set
Think about what your goals are and what it's going to take to get there. Online degrees help students develop time management and organizational skills, while in-person degrees can help you improve your social skills. Depending on your own personal strengths and weaknesses, the type of degree you pursue can determine whether you develop the skills you need to reach your teaching goals.
Consider Your Financial Situation
How much can you afford to pay for college? What financial aid options are available to you? Can you afford to live on campus or commute to school, or would it be better for you financially to study from home? Online degrees generally cost less than in-person degrees, so if finances are a major consideration for you, studying online may be the way to go.
Determine Program Flexibility
Some in-person programs allow greater flexibility than others; for example, they may offer night or weekend course options, or part-time options that work better with your schedule. On the other hand, some online degrees provide more rigid structure than usual. Try to decide how much program flexibility matters to you, then investigate any program you're considering thoroughly to determine whether it will work for you.
FAQs About Online Teaching Degrees
Still have questions about online degree programs? Read on for answers.
How Long Does It Take To Complete an Online Teaching Degree?
The answer to this question depends on many factors. Most bachelor's degree programs take an average of about four years to complete if you study full-time; however, you may be able to finish your coursework in one to three years if you have significant transfer credits. Part-time students typically take longer to graduate.
What Career Opportunities Are Available for Online Teaching Degree Graduates?
Those who get their teaching degree online can pursue the same careers as those who complete in-person degrees. Options include:
What Skills Do Online Teaching Degrees Offer?
Online teaching degrees provide many of the same teaching skills as in-person programs; students learn how to work with kids, evaluate student progress, assign and grade projects, and more. Those in online programs also learn how to manage their time and how to be organized, skills that can translate into success in the classroom.
Is an Online Teaching Degree Viewed Differently Than a Traditional One?
Many schools offering online degrees don't differentiate between them and the in-person degrees they award; students receive the same degree regardless of how they completed their education. What's more, most employers don't mind hiring candidates who got their education online, especially if they graduated from a reputable school.