Setting up Your Home for Distance Learning
There’s no doubt that distance learning is exciting and getting your associate’s degree online is no exception. The concept of going to class on your own schedule is very appealing for many people. But, how do you go about really setting up your home for distance learning?
When you start setting up your home for distance learning your first step is going to be to pick a spot for your “class.” It should be a place that’s out of the way from the hustle and bustle. For instance, if you have children, the kitchen or living room would not be a good spot! Usually a guest room, basement, or even your own bedroom will suffice.
Remember to check the lighting. Do you feel more comfortable in a place that’s full of natural light, or do you like it dimmer? The more comfortable your area is, the more you’ll want to be there. If you choose a dank closet with a cramped little desk and no light, then going to class is going to be that much more tedious.
Now, this certainly doesn’t mean that you’re “always” going to have class at this one place. It just means that this is going to be your base camp. You’ll keep your books, your computer, your notes, and anything else you need for class at this spot. This will help prevent you from losing your work around the house!
Next you need to examine your desk and chair. Spending a lot of money on a massive desk is unnecessary; after all, a folding table will work just as well. If you’re going to invest money in anything, invest in a good chair to sit in. Sitting for hours in an uncomfortable chair is not only painful and distracting, but it’s also bad for your body and posture. Having a better quality chair to sit in while you learn will make all the difference.
You might also want to think about making a sign that will give a visible reminder to your family that you’re working. Many students, when setting up their home for distance learning, will make a sign that says “IN CLASS”, which they hang on the door when they do their schoolwork.
If you’re going to be more mobile when it comes to your classroom (studying at work, the library, or even your child’s soccer practice) then it’s helpful to have a computer bag to keep all your schoolwork stuff together. Your notebooks, textbooks, pens, and laptop all stay in one bag, which will ensure you don’t leave something important behind when you leave the house.
Setting up your home for distance learning doesn’t require a lot of money or time, but it is important that you put a little effort into setting up a quiet, private place to work. You’ll definitely be more successful if you have a comfortable place to go to class!
Guide to Online Associates Degree Programs
Associate degree holders generally have better job prospects than those with only a high school diploma. Earning an associate degree usually takes two years, and doing so in at an online school can be much more convenient than at a traditional campus. Below are the top accredited online schools offering associate degrees in the US.
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With one of the largest offerings of accredited online associate degrees, Post University is consistently highly rated by its students because of its flexibility and affordability. All associate degrees offered are fully accredited. Post was founded in 1890 and has been providing highly-rated degree programs to students ever since with an emphasis on practicality and application. Read full school profile » |
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The University of Phoenix was one of the first accredited colleges to offer online degrees. Today, it has grown to become one of the nation's largest universities through its online division and campuses coast to coast. They remain one of the top choices for students looking for an associates degree online because of the broad array of choice and affordability they offer students. Read full school profile » |
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With perhaps the largest number of online associates degrees offered, Kaplan University's degrees are fully accredited, affordable, and offer a flexibility that many other online schools cannot match. This unrivaled selection spans several industries, hundreds of specializations, and all degree levels of education, empowering students to choose their own path to a career. Read full school profile » |
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One of the nation's leading Christian universities, Liberty offers a broad range of accredited associate degrees online. Their incorporation of moral and ethical considerations into study make them a popular choice for students seeking a well-rounded education built on academic integrity. Established in 1985, Liberty University has one of the longest-standing online education programs in the country. Read full school profile » |
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The online associates degrees at Everest University can be completed in under 2 years, making this a great way for students to quickly works towards their life goals. An associates degree can give you a jump-start on your career and open opportunities around every corner. Many of the programs help students pursue positions in ever-growing fields. Read full school profile » |
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Virginia College offers a wide range of accredited associates programs. VC takes several steps in helping students pays for college by offering financial aid to those who qualify, including textbooks in the tuition cost, and providing online programs that can be completed under two (2) years, giving students a quick way to jump start their careers. Read full school profile » |
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DeVry University is a highly-regarded leader in education with campuses across the nation and several online degrees available. DeVry focuses on providing degrees centered in the technology industry or fields that require a broad understanding and need for technical skills. DeVry has several highly popular degrees like Accounting, Web Graphic Design, Health IT, and Network Systems Administration. Read full school profile » |
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Strayer University has over the last decade become one of the most respected schools offering accredited online associate degrees. Their strong reputation among employers, broad course offerings, and over one hundred years in education make them consistently a top choice for students. Strayer has over 85 campuses and 60,000 students currently attending online or at one of its campuses. Read full school profile » |







