The Internet gave birth to many innovations in business and communication, and online classes are gaining popularity. Most universities now include an online course selection as part of their traditional education plan, and many other accredited schools, such as The University of Phoenix, offer entire digital degree plans.
According to a 2004 study in the British Journal of Educational Technology by Dr. Namin Shin and Jason K.Y. Chan, the main factors in a successful online learning experience are student achievement, satisfaction and persistence. The amount of quality time the student spent online for the program was part of the equation. Mere time online did not show a clear correlation to student performance. However, the level of engagement and quality hours online (not surfing other pages, checking email, etc.) did show a direct relationship with performance. Another indirect factor is how well the student felt connected to and supported by the educational establishment. The more connected a student feels, the better he or she will do in the online course, Shin and Chan said.
Possible hindrances to online learning are a lack of focus or self-discipline or a weak understanding of the basic material. As a result, Shin and Chan found that postgraduate students had more success than undergraduates with online programs. If a student has a short attention span or an inability to self-police his or her activities, online classes can exacerbate these problems. As a student falls behind, his or her connectedness to the institution and ability to seek help are crucial factors. Students who do not feel supported or understand how to use the system well have a hard time getting back on track. Postgraduate students generally have a better grasp of the basic information, are more interested in the material, and know how to seek out help when needed. However, a highly motivated, self-disciplined undergraduate can also succeed in an online learning program, and some online-focused schools, such as the University of Phoenix, have advisors that are available to help students along the way.