Distance Learning Computer Degree
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Information technology majors can earn a distance learning computer degree from a specialized IT school or technical college via online courses. The phenomenal growth of telecommunications and data management has spawned a demand for highly qualified men and women in the field of computers. Technical colleges and information technology schools across the country are enrolling young adults in record numbers who are seeking lucrative careers as programmers, network administrators, web designers, and help desk technicians. Even senior management officers and former military personnel who must be re-trained for new career fields are opting for enrollment in online institutions that grant a distance learning computer degree. Computer science is a field that continues to grow, spawning new industries and employment opportunities.
In spite of economic downturns, volatile stock markets, and soaring unemployment, jobs are still plentiful in database management or technical repair. Computers have become the mainstays of financial, educational, healthcare, retail, manufacturing, and human services industries worldwide. Nearly every domestic and foreign enterprise is dependent upon a network of servers and PCs to collect and manage data, assets, personnel files, and provide administrative support. These electronic machines have become the lifeline of business; and most enterprises simply could not function without reliance upon industry-specific hardware and software. From beginning courses, which introduce students to keyboarding basics, to complicated studies in writing programs and software design, earning a distance learning computer degree can be an exciting challenge for today's enrollees. However, unlike previous generations, today's young adults have grown up in a digital age, cutting their baby teeth on memory chips. Accelerated math and science programs introduce first graders to computing before they can barely ride a two-wheeler; therefore, much of computer science is second nature.
No matter what the skill level, pursuing a distance learning computer degree usually begins with students applying online and taking a prerequisite course, usually entitled "Introduction to Computers." Students who successfully pass or test out of this introductory course then elect to enroll in a field of interest, depending upon whether they want to pursue troubleshooting and repairing PCs, writing or developing software programs, or managing corporate networks and dedicated servers. Students are issued a password-protected user ID to log onto the online institution's server and access software for each curriculum. Most courses require textbooks which include programs and class assignments, which are downloaded or available on a separate CD. Some courses may require students pursuing a distance learning computer degree to install software or compressed files onto their home PC to access assignments, graphics or text. In order to maintain consistency, web design and html courses may include graphics on separate files for downloads during class sessions. As with any high-tech field, comprehending and applying computer science principles requires concerted effort; and the prerequisite for success is always diligent study. "Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth" (II Timothy 2:15).
Earning a distance learning computer degree also requires self-discipline and persistence. Since students work independently and at their own pace, there must be a concentrated effort to stay on task and complete each program module as assigned. Instructors and other online students maintain communication via chatrooms, emails, and audio and video conferencing. Some instructors may prefer to "go by the book," expecting distance learning students to apprehend and comprehend technical principles and applications solo. Other faculty may videotape demonstrations of procedures, such as hardware or operating system installations, which can be viewed in real time or downloaded later for review. A course syllabus accompanies each web-based program and guides students along at an acceptable pace. Syllabi also keep enrollees informed about upcoming quizzes, exams, homework, and reading assignments. Now, here is where self-discipline is a must. Since most web-based learning is accelerated, students cannot expect to casually complete assignments or linger over important concepts. The fast pace of online learning will keep program participants on their toes; and catching up is nearly impossible once they fall behind on scheduled tests, assignments and group discussions.
Test time for online learners can be a blessing or a curse. Open book tests are usually the norm for web-based instruction, since online students cannot be monitored. To prevent students from taking unfair advantage of open books to answer quizzes and exams, tests are usually timed and programs are designed to move along to the next module, whether students have completed sections of an exam or not. A major advantage to testing for distance learning computer degree candidates is that they have ample time to study and practice troubleshooting and applying textbook principles. Time saved by not having to drive to campus and attend class can be utilized in front of the home or office PC. Stay-at-home moms and dads, disabled veterans, part-time employees, and self-employed entrepreneurs can all work around their schedules; some burning the midnight oil to apprehend complex computer applications.
Virtual and brick and mortar technical colleges, schools and universities offer programs leading to a distance learning computer degree to men and women aged 18 and over who have a high school diploma or GED. Enrollment in online curriculums requires ownership of a home or office PC with Internet access, along with a basic knowledge of file management, word processing, and typing on a keyboard. Most instruction and communication is accomplished via email, and students should have an email address to correspond with instructors and other classmates. Technical colleges may also require students to take an assessment test to determine whether they have the propensity to study independently, along with a skills assessment for proper placement in a computer sciences program which best suits their individual aptitude.
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