General Review Sites (Use with Caution):
* Google Reviews: While convenient, these are often unverified and may not represent a balanced view. Look for patterns and consider the number of reviews.
* Yelp: Similar to Google Reviews, Yelp can offer some insights but should be used with caution. Focus on trends rather than individual experiences.
* Sitejabber: This site focuses on reviews of businesses, including some online schools. Again, critical thinking is vital.
More Reliable Resources (Still Requires Critical Analysis):
* Department of Education's Database: The U.S. Department of Education's website (if you are in the US) provides accreditation status for institutions. While it doesn't offer reviews, knowing the school is accredited is a crucial first step. Check the accreditation agency's reputation as well; not all accrediting bodies are created equal.
* Accreditation Agency Websites: Look up the specific accreditation agency for a school you are interested in. These agencies often have information and may even offer some feedback from their accreditation processes.
* Professional Organizations: If you are pursuing a specific field (e.g., nursing, engineering), relevant professional organizations may offer resources or rankings of related programs.
* Student Forums and Communities: Online forums dedicated to distance learning or specific fields of study can offer firsthand accounts, but be aware of potential bias. Take reviews with a grain of salt and look for recurring themes.
Things to Consider When Reading Reviews:
* Date of the review: Older reviews may not reflect the current quality of the school.
* Specificity: Look for reviews that provide detailed information about the school's strengths and weaknesses. Vague reviews are less helpful.
* Bias: Consider the reviewer's potential biases. Did they have a negative experience due to personal factors or systemic issues?
* Multiple sources: Don't rely on a single review. Try to find information from various sources to get a more holistic picture.
Remember that no review site is perfect. Always conduct thorough research, including checking accreditation, contacting the school directly, and potentially speaking with current or former students. The best approach is a multi-faceted investigation to ensure you choose a reputable and high-quality distance learning school.