In the world of online education, we often talk about the choices our students have. The first choice is whether to return to school; many online students are returning to educational pursuits after many years of focusing on family and/or their careers. The second choice students face is where to go; there are an ever-increasing number of schools finding new and creative ways of reaching out to potential students. The final choice, we say students must make, is whether to go to school online or on a traditional campus. However, after several conversations with online students, I do not believe this last option is actually a choice for many; without the possibility of online education, there would not be an opportunity to earn a college degree.

            Many of my students talk freely about their families and past experiences. Many share why they had to put their dreams of earning a college degree on hold; for some, it was due to an unplanned pregnancy while others found themselves needing the financial rewards of a full-time job. Although the reasons differ, each student acknowledges that he/she knew there was more available; it was just out of reach for the time being.

            Realizing the importance of a college degree prompts these students to consider the possibilities of returning to school. Is it feasible (financially and time-wise)? Can they juggle family, work, and school? Is there a school nearby with the programs they want? Is that school fully accredited? These questions must be considered before making the commitment.

            For many students, attending school in person is simply not possible. Whether it is four hours one night a week or an hour a few times a week, this is time where babysitters must be found and/or work re-arranged. Then, the drive to and from must be factored in; is the car dependable? For many of my students, time that can be dedicated to themselves comes no earlier than 9 pm; rarely are there courses that begin that late. If this was the only option, many students would feel defeated, or close to, before the course ever began.  

            No babysitters, no re-arranging of work hours, no transportation required, and no specific days/hours; online education is in one word, flexible. Students must take responsibility for themselves but they also realize that the process is ultimately, a learning one. Through trial and error, online students discover what works best for them and that they are in control of their destiny.

            Every day, a student expresses how important a college degree is and how it would not be possible without the possibility of online education. For these students, this lack of choice should not lead to a substandard education; instead, let's show this student that he/she is capable of much more and through accountability and hard work, he/she will have endless number of choices lying ahead.