Understanding Your Online College Schedule

There are four main types of online class schedules that are prevalent in colleges today. These four include:

  • Self-Paced Schedules - A self-paced schedule features courses that present students with the opportunity to finish their coursework whenever they wish. It is the students’ responsibility to watch lectures and read material on their own time. There are limits to this, as the class will stipulate that all work must be completed by a certain date but there is total flexibility regarding when to hand in individual assignments. Self-paced schedules are generally geared towards the most motivated students who can manage their time effectively. This is because there is a great degree of autonomy for the student and it is his/her responsibility to learn and finish work on time.
  • Self-Paced Schedules with Deadlines - This type of scheduling system also allows students to learn on their own schedule. Modules with information are available through the online college and students can read them at their own discretion. This scheduling system, however, has specific deadlines for assignments. This is a good option for students who desire scheduling freedom but want a more structured educational experience.
  • Follow Along Schedules - Online college courses that utilize follow along schedules require students to abide by stricter deadlines and they have structured class meetings. These are more similar to traditional college classes in that they present material at a certain scheduled date and time. Students often interact via online chat or message boards to discuss the material. Follow along schedules are better for students that are relatively new to the online college experience. They present a structured environment that encourages students to do the work required to master the topics taught in the course.
  • Real Time Schedules - This is the most structured form of an online college schedule. Courses are generally conducted through video or audio conferencing tools that allow students and professors to interact with each other in real time. Students meet a certain amount of times per week at scheduled times to receive instruction from the professor. These schedules typically have group projects as part of their curriculums. Real time schedules are intended for students that are less concerned about scheduling flexibility and desire courses with more interaction among peers.
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