Online Government Courses
Insider tips for choosing and succeeding in the right school and career
School Surprises
"Very Interactive Program Provided By Faculty...
I was surprised by how good the online professors were. They were all different in their approach to online material, but they each presented it in a straightforward manner that actually helped the students learn. The faculty set up everything from video chats, to games, to interactive group projects we could all contribute to. The amount of video content we got to experience was helpful." (Public Policy; 2014)
"Quality Student Interaction...
I was surprised about the intelligence and level of engagement of other students in my program. They did not meet the stereotype of online students, and were very communicative. The online interactions with other students was one of the most positive components of the program." (Analyst; 2014)
"More Difficult Than I Thought...
I was surprised at the difficulty level of an online course. I was expecting it to be easier than in person, but it was harder." (Probation Officer; 2014)
"Effort And Determination Is Key...
I was surprised by how much extra time and dedication I had to put forth. When a person thinks about taking online courses no one seems to consider that it is still school and getting good grades is important" (criminalist; 2014)
"Ease Of Access To Professors...
I was surprised how easy it was to get in touch with professors, in order to receive help with specific questions, just to chat, or to clear up any thing I didn't quite understand. As well, I was surprised at the age spread of some of my classmates, and how many different fields we were in, or going into." (Aide; 2014)
Best School Tips
"Read Required Readings Several Times...
Do the work ahead of time, even though many projects aren't due right away. Most if not all of the work for an online class can be submitted well before the due date, so you can work ahead if you are going to be busy. This is also a good way to prepare for a test, by doing all the homework ahead of time and than looking at it again as the test draws near as a review. Government classes are a lot of reading, so read the work several times. Once in bulk, and than a more casual review later." (Aide; 2014)
"Getting The Most Out Of An Online Class...
Spend a lot of time getting to know the course format and instructor. Do not go into the program thinking you can put in less effort or time just because it is online." (Probation Officer; 2014)
"Find In-Person Help To Go Along...
If you're going to study online, you need to be motivated, and you HAVE to find out if there's some in person resources for you. If your school has a local campus, take advantage of free tutoring and counselors. If there's no local resources, ask the help department if they're linked with a local college to provide help. Ask in your classes if there's any other students near you who can work with you to study and learn, you won't feel so alone." (Public Policy; 2014)
"Dedicated Work Area...
Develop a dedicated work space that you can focus on school. The area should be in a location in which you will have few distractions. Make sure that the location has all the tools you need to focus including large computer monitors and comfortable furniture." (Analyst; 2014)
"Be Prepared For Difference...
Be sure to do your research on the subject you are interested in. Television and movies make most things look like fun and seldom do the display all the work that needs to be done leading up to their career and life experience." (criminalist; 2014)