College in a Recession - Community College and Online Learning Alternatives By Beth C. Hood and James J. Hood

With the average cost of a private 4-year college topping out at over 25-thousand dollars a year, many would-be students and their families are scrambling to figure out how they can afford a degree. The traditional vision of college includes coeds and ivy-covered buildings, but getting a college education today doesn't necessarily have to include dormitories and dining halls.

Today's recession is bringing more and more students - young and old -- to the campuses of community and technical colleges and the world of online learning. For high school grads that can't afford the traditional college experience these options are a great alternative. They're also good choices for those who've recently lost a job or want to make a career change.

Community College
Many people who wouldn't have considered community college before, are now looking at the schools with a fresh eye. The option makes sense for families on a tight budget since the national average tuition is under 3-thousand dollars. The cost of community college also appeals to students who cringe at the thought of graduating with tens of thousands of dollars in student loans.

Actually, community college can serve a variety of purposes. Some families choose to use it as a bridge between high school and a 4-year institution. If you didn't get into your college of choice or just aren't ready to leave home yet, a community college can be a great transition. It gives everyone a breather and the student more time to mature and figure out the best course of action.

For those who aren't quite sure of a career path, community college can be a good way to explore areas of interest without the big price tag and commitment of a 4-year college. Many community colleges also offer more career-oriented classes that may appeal to non-traditional students who don't necessarily need a bachelor's degree.

And despite what some might think, the quality of instruction at community colleges is often top notch since the positions are quite competitive.

Many students defray the total cost of college by living at home and taking core classes at a local community college for two years and transferring those credits to a traditional college where they finish up their last two years.

On the flipside, there are some disadvantages to community college. With all students commuting there's less of a college campus feel and not as much interaction among students, and transferring credits to another school can sometimes be a nightmare. Also, while some students love living at home, others are more than ready to leave the nest and need to get out on their own.

Online Education
The Internet has brought college to many who wouldn't have the opportunity otherwise. Also called distance or e-learning, online classes have become a very popular way to take classes or complete a degree. Many people prefer the flexible schedule because they can take classes anywhere, anytime, don't have to dress for school, and can replay lectures or review materials without having to take notes.

Online classes are perfect for part-time students taking classes after work or for people with young children. They're also good for students who don't do well in the traditional school environment. This particular style of learning is very appealing to students who may have short attention spans, are intimidated by classroom discussions or who prefer a more multi-media style of teaching.

Of course there are drawbacks to Online learning as well. It might not be a good choice for students who have little self-discipline and may feel isolating to some because of the lack of direct interaction with other students and the teacher. Credits may also be more difficult to transfer to another school.

Given the current economy, a non-traditional approach to college might be a very smart way to approach higher education. At the very least these options can make college more accessible and ease the financial burden for students and their families.

Want to avoid being one of the 30% of college freshman who drops out before their sophomore year? Download a free e-book called the Dream Team Action Guide, which will guide you step by step on how to find the right team of people to a support your dreams or check out Where's the Map? Create Your OWN Guide to Life After Graduation available in our gift shop at http://www.WheresTheMap.com

Beth C. and James J. Hood are the authors of Where's the Map? Create Your OWN Guide to Life after Graduation, the first of a series of interactive guidebooks designed to help you find, focus on, and achieve your goals. They are also founders of the Gap Year Scholarship and Inspiration Fundraising, a program to raise money for schools and student programs through the sales of meaningful graduation gifts.