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Seven questions to help you
find the right online training
By Dana
Dratch • Bankrate.com
 If
you're thinking about putting money down for online study, here
are seven questions to ask:
1. How is this class or program going to
benefit your business? Will it help you market your product?
Will it help you network? Make sure the program can give you exactly
what you need.
2. Can you preview the class? You should
be able to see a summary of a class or program before you write
a check. Are the class topics things you need to learn? Are the
textbooks up to date?
3. What do knowledgeable people think of
the school? If you are not familiar with the institution, talk
to professionals in your field and ask about the school's reputation.
4. Who is teaching the class? Do the
teachers have practical experience in their areas of study? Do they
teach at traditional ground-based programs or universities? Are
they qualified to do so?
5. Is the class or program accredited or
recognized by your industry? If your goal is a degree, opt for
a program accredited by one of the six regional accreditation bodies.
Ask school leaders if they are accredited and by whom -- then call
the accreditation body yourself. In addition, contact the Better
Business Bureau and the licensing body where the school is based.
Ask if there have been complaints.
6. Can you talk to students? A reputable
school will give you a list of graduates or current students. Make
a list of things you need to know about the program and start dialing.
Questions to ask: Is the classroom software easy to use? Are professors
knowledgeable and accessible? How tough is it to drop or add a class?
Would you do it all again?
7. You're ready for class, but is your computer?
Ask school representatives about hardware and software requirements.
What will you need to access the classes comfortably? Will you need
to upgrade your modem? Also ask what percentage of the time the
system is up, and if you can see documentation.
Dana Dratch is a freelance
writer based in Georgia
To comment on this story, please e-mail
the Bankrate.com
editors
-- Posted: July 31, 2000
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