Distance learning – great option for single parents
by Dr. Leah
Filed under Tips & Advice
With the economy in a near melt down, are you taking a hard-nosed look at your job prospects? We know first hand that your career goals might include more training and education. After all, a college education, an advanced degree, or simply additional training/certification will boost your earnings and offer more career options.
The logistics and, of course, the expense of going back to school are overwhelming when your kid responsibilities are 24/7.
Let’s talk about a possible option: Are you familiar with distance learning? Distance learning is any learning that take place with the teacher and the student geographically apart from each other. And online schools are a good entry way into distance learning.
Rachel finished her Bachelor’s degree with classes online! Distance learning is growing phenomenally because it has almost limitless potential to bring the finest teachers right to every student’s home or office.
What does this means for you? Distance learning means that college is not just for kids any more or for those who have the luxury of attending full-time.
We love distance learning as an option for single parents and here’s why: For single parents, typically with no backup and a constant shortage of ready cash, online learning offer the chance to avoid babysitting costs (and the nagging guilt about being away from home) while also saving a bundle on gas.
Online learning also lets you comparison shop. Online learning favors single parents willing to shop around for their best educational buy. If you commute to school, the realistic choices are limited and you will pay the asking price. Tuition prices vary widely, and these differences in price do not reflect differences in quality.
Lots of you have already explored or successfully completed an online learning program. Congrats!
What tips can you share with other single parents to help them take these next educational/training steps?
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Online education is a great option for single parents! I only wish what I want to do is available online – medical social work. A social work degree by definition implies SOCIAL work. I have not found a single program that allows you to complete a social work degree online. Please let me know if you do! I am applying for a grant through a local foundation that supports single moms continuing education, and I am looking into all programs near me for 2009. Still, it will be a HUGE challenge to accommodate the commute and childcare. I am leary of some online degree programs from institutions that are not linked to brick and mortar, because I just don’t believe I will be “hirable” with the school name.
Twitter @ Singlemommyhood
Erin: Thank you so much for sharing your plans. We’d love to hear more about foundation grants available for single moms interested in furthering their education. Of course, every institution should be carefully investigated before single parents invest their hard earned money and valuable time.
Distance learning saved my life. After my divorce, I was able to upgrade my certification and get my Master’s online, and it really jump started my new world. I am now getting ready to get my 2nd Master’s through an online program for job security. It is sometimes harder not having live, human support, but I was able to work around my children’s life, and I did most of it after hours, in my p.j.’s.
Some advice: Fasa deadline for fiancial aid is Sunday, March 15. You need to be already in your program to receive aid. Alway prepare ahead and know deadlines.
Build a support system for help when you need it. Have friends who will listen, and remember to take care of you. This isn’t the same thing as living in a dorm and having the college experience. Sometimes real life may overwhelm.
Make sure your program is recognized by the company or state where you want to work.
Twitter @ http://wondermom-pickingupthepieces.blogspot.com/
I don’t know how I missed this post the first time around. Distance Learning can be a lifesaver, but you need to have realistic expectations going into it. Online courses (from a reputable institution) are not easier or less work than traditional courses and they require more self-discipline and time management. In many cases, they are more work than a traditional course because in a lot of ways you are teaching yourself.
You also need to make sure that the institution you choose is accredited and reputable. There are a lot of scams out there and a lot of online schools that employers recognize as being substandard. A little research can save you a lot of money and a lot of headache and heartache down the road.
Finally, here’s a great resource if you’re interested in going back to school online: http://www.examiner.com/x-5845-Atlanta-Working-Moms-Examiner~y2009m3d26-Project-Working-Momand-Dads-Too-Full-scholarships-for-working-parents
Wondermom’s last blog post..Prepare to be offended
I love the option of distance learning, for all the reasons the post gives above. First of all, it will save money on gas. Gas prices change frequently, and people are trying to save money anywhere and everywhere these days (or at least, more so these days).
It is also a “green” way to go, if you are wanting to get a college education. It minimizes the use of your car to and from school, helping you have less impact on the planet, and letting you “clean”, if you will, your carbon footprint.
It can be challenging, though, at times, when taking classes over the internet. As a college student myself, I am taking one distance learning online class. I prefer being there, with the teacher, so I can ask questions and get a quick response. I also just find I learn much better when a live person is teaching me.
This is just MY way of learning, however. Many people have different ways of storing and taking in information, and many people really don’t have the option to go to school–ESPECIALLY single moms.
I love distant learning for all the reasons mentioned above, plus another one: I have ADHD, which makes learning in a traditional classroom setting difficult.
I’ve been doing distance learning, since the early 90s and, when I was unable to complete my undergrad degree, due to my single parent responsibilities, I chose a distance learning program to complete it. It ended up being the best decision I’ve made.
Now, that I’m returning to school for my master’s, I’m now only applying to distance learning programs. Though I work from home full-time, my job is very hectic and demanding, so having the flexibility to also go to school from home is the best option for me and my son.
Twitter @ http://www.singlemommyhood.com
Welcome to Singlemommyhood Ms. No Single Mama Drama. We’d love to know: what are you getting your Master’s in? Congrats!