Avoiding Improprieties in Online Computer Training Courses
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 searching for online computer training. Regardless of the course taken, this may prove helpful.
More and more students are turning 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 lodge a complaint, it 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), and 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 times 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.
