We live in a world where we can work alongside our colleagues overseas through digital channels, and it should be no different while pursuing your degree online.
When considering an online program as an expat, frequent business traveler or overseas student, ask these four questions to ensure you meet your technology needs.
1. Do you have the right technology to succeed while traveling? Online programs require students to engage with technology in a way that in-person programs do not. Any student should have a reliable computer that is fast enough to watch streaming videos. You may also need a camera if programs require you to record yourself taking exams or work in teams.
Students living internationally should use an internet-based phone service account and app to save considerable phone fees when working with groups on projects, speaking to professors and, as in my program, call into live video class sessions. If money permits, a portable device such as a tablet is invaluable to study self-paced content as you travel.
[Learn to pursue an online degree program while overseas.]
2. Does your country have any internet restrictions? As an expat living in Saudi Arabia, programs such as FaceTime are not allowed on devices purchased here, so I bought my devices for the program from the U.S. prior to moving.
After consulting the school’s website to determine what you need, research the country-specific restrictions you might face and explore ways to work around those restrictions or find alternatives.
3. Do you have reliable connectivity? Online programs are only a good option if you can secure a reliable internet connection. Before you start, conduct an audit of your personal connectivity. Determine barriers to connectivity from overseas or as you travel. Professors will not grant you special accommodations just because you are abroad.
Most programs post basic technology requirements on their “frequently asked questions” pages online. These markers can give you an idea of the minimum internet speed needed for engaging with class content. Consider reaching out in advance to the IT departments of the programs you are interested in to determine their help desk’s hours — which might be affected by time differences — and ask specific questions.
4. Is the course structure manageable from another country? Overseas students should determine the structure of their classes and decide if attending class is manageable from another country.
[Explore how to decide between live and self-paced online courses.]
Online programs typically have content that is either asynchronous, or self-paced; synchronous, or live; or a combination. Asynchronous sessions generally involve watching pre-recorded videos and posting responses, and this can usually be done easily while traveling.
But synchronous content typically relies on video delivery programs like Adobe Connect which allow you to join live class sessions and might also require greater internet speed. Determine what that means for you in your current time zone.
The takeaway: Pursuing a degree online from overseas can be a very rewarding and flexible way to complete your education, but it requires you to have the right technology. Make sure you have the right equipment and research whether the course structure will work for you in your time zone.
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Ask 4 Tech Questions as a Traveling Online Student originally appeared on usnews.com
