Online Colleges Key Terms

Learn the language of online education to make the right choices for you
By Jess Buskirk For many employers, online colleges are the best option for offering education and training to employees. Virtual learning offers the flexibility that full-time workers need to complete coursework, and employers have the option of allowing coursework to be completed during the workday when time permits. For an employer who is searching for the best online classes for employee education, learning the key words and phrases commonly used by colleges and universities is helpful.

Non-credit classes

Non-credit classes are individual courses designed specifically for enrichment and training purposes. Employers can enroll employees in select non-credit classes without committing to a full certificate or degree program.
Try:  Browse through the various non-credit classes offered by The Ohio State University. For more examples of non-credit classes, visit the Holyoke Community College website.

Accreditation

If an online college has an accreditation, it means that the school has proven it meets standards set by a governing body, such as the National Education Association. Colleges typically advertise their accreditation on their websites and in their marketing for new students.
Try:  Read more about online college accreditation at Online-Education.net. The Online Education Database offers tips for finding out if an online college is accredited.

Group discounts

Online colleges that offer discounted rates for groups of employees may also tailor training packages to meet a company's needs. Employers who are enrolling several employees in online college courses should inquire both about group discounts and whether customization is an option.
Try:  Visit the University of California website for more information about discounted online courses for corporate groups.

Cooperative education

For employees who are actively seeking their college degrees, cooperative education programs allow them to earn credits for their work experience. The employer and the college work together to provide the student with a combination of coursework and practical application.
Try:  For an example of a cooperative education program, visit the Clemson University website. To learn more about the cooperative education ideology, browse through the resources at the Journal of Cooperative Education and Internships.

Disability services

Many online schools offer specific accommodations tailored for students with disabilities such as visual impairment, deafness, psychological disorders, learning disabilities, traumatic brain injury, mobility issues, ADHD and cancer. Disability services vary depending on the disability, but may include technology, mobility assistance, or sound amplification.
Try:  Ashford University offers detailed explanations of various disability services.

Virtual classroom

A virtual classroom is the platform an online instructor uses to teach students. The classroom can be a compilation of resources, such as class notes, presentations and readings, as well as an application similar to a chat room that requires students to log on at specific times for instruction.
Try:  For an example of a virtual classroom, visit the University of Kansas Medical Center website. Visit WiZiQ to learn more about a virtual classroom application.