| Once you’ve decided to earn your Master’s degree, how
do you choose the university that is best for you as an adult learner
with career concerns? Many teachers have turned to online learning as
a convenient, adaptive way for them to earn their degrees while earning
a living. Advantages of Online Learning Convenience – Online degree programs allow you the freedom to
study at your own pace around your already hectic teaching schedule.
Classes delivered online and/or on CD-ROM afford you the flexibility
to attend class anytime, anywhere it’s convenient for you. Diversity – Distance learning programs remove geographic limitations,
so you have the ability to choose from a wider variety of universities.
This leads to greater diversity in the student body, so richer classroom
interaction is often achieved. Expediency – The freedom to attend class when and where it’s
best for you allows you to complete your Master’s degree faster
than with traditional methods. Guidelines to Selecting an Online University Reputation – Choose a university that is respected and established
in the education community. In your search for a distance learning provider,
make sure to include traditional ground-based universities that now offer
Master’s degrees in education online, like The
University of Scranton. Accreditation – Confirm that the university you’re considering
is accredited by an established accrediting body. Accrediting organizations,
such as NCATE – National Council
for Accreditation of Teacher Education, specialize in establishing
rigorous standards for teacher education programs. Rich Interaction – The American Federation
of Teachers sites close personal interaction and rich
interactive tools as two essential components for effective
distance education. Items to look for include limited class size and
features like streaming video lectures, live chat rooms and collaborative
opportunities. When to Apply The time to earn your Master’s degree is now. Education is fast
becoming a burgeoning field, and an advanced degree is one of the best
ways to ensure a secure and rewarding future. Earning your Master’s
degree creates opportunities you wouldn’t otherwise have and provides
a springboard for future earning and enhanced career satisfaction. Teacher’s
who have earned their Master’s degrees are more effective in the
classroom and help to improve student’s reading scores over the
course of the school year, according to recent studies. Now you know more about the benefits of online learning and some helpful
guidelines in selecting a university that best suits your needs. It’s
time to advance your profession as a teacher by earning your Master’s
degree! References American Federation of Teachers. (2001, May). A Virtual Revolution:
Trends in the Expansion of Distance Education, 19. | 
