Online computer training courses are offered by both
reputable institutions and sometimes not-so-reputable sources. The problem in
determining which is which can be determined through appropriate resources. The
purpose of this article is to provide a few guidelines as to what to look for
when you are looking for online computer training. Regardless of the course
taken, this may prove helpful.
More and more students are taking to the internet to solve
a common dilemma: lack of time to obtain classroom instruction. This has
created a niche for education professionals: online computer training courses.
These courses are numerous and cover topics from astrology to zoology and
everything in between. Starting with the information provided below may prove
helpful:
Reputation:
One of the first signs or signals of impropriety to look
for when evaluating an online computer training course is reputation. Are there
reviews available for the company or group offering the training? If not, this
may be a negative indication. If there are, do they post both favorable and
unfavorable reviews? If so, this may indicate an open-mindedness towards
criticism on the part of the staff.
Accredited or Not:
Is the particular online computer training course
accredited? If not, depending on your needs, this may prove to be a wasted
effort on your part. Though you may feel as though you've learned something, it
may prove to be worthless as it pertains to advancing a degree. Accreditation
should be looked at with scrutiny. A good source for determining accreditation
is through a Google search for accredited online colleges.
Physical Location:
Is the staff located in one physical location or does
correspondence go to a post office box? A company that doesn't have a physical
location on a map could be another sign of impropriety. Without a physical
location to visit and or lodge a complaint can prove to be difficult in the
event of legal problems such as settling a dispute. Some online computer
training courses offer interaction through electronic mail (Email), this should
not be taken as a negative unless there is no corresponding physical address.
Contact Information:
Is telephonic conversation done through a 1-800 number?
Often time’s dummy corporations and other illegal activities are coordinated
through 800 numbers. That's not to say that this by itself should be a deciding
factor: some operate call centers through a network of 800 numbers to lessen
expenses. Is there an alternate contact phone number? Again, not solely a disqualifying
factor however it is a plus to find that there is a non 800 number available.
Catalog:
Is the company offering the online computer course,
offering only one course or do they possess a catalog of courses available?
Providing a singular course is a bad sign. Just as a traditional college
doesn't concentrate on one discipline of study, neither should a reputable
institution offering online computer training courses.
As in any online endeavor that may have an effect on your
future, due diligence should be taken prior to a financial commitment. The
suggestions made in this article are not all inclusive and should not be taken
singularly as an indication of impropriety; rather in whole or in combination.
0 comments:
Post a Comment