More adults kick off new year by turning to online education

Adults often underestimate the time needed for online learning, a Web site says.
HOBOKEN, N.J. -- Diet plans, exercise and other strategies aimed at self-improvement are typical New Year's resolutions, but a growing number of adults are turning to online learning as a way to turn over a new leaf.
Going back to school remains a very popular New Year's resolution.
According to the U.S. Department of Education, within the next three years more than 20 million adults 25 years and older will be enrolling in a continuing education course. And more than likely, they will be doing it online. According to a Sloan Consortium report just released, more than 3.2 million students took an online course in 2005.
As with most resolutions, staying committed for an entire year can be tough, especially with work schedules, family commitments and other barriers leading some people to online learning.
Helpful Web site
To help students stick to it and be successful, eLearners.com & reg;, a search engine connecting students to educational opportunities, has created the first comprehensive "Guide to Online Education."
"Just like signing up for a gym membership, more people turn to online learning around the New Year as a means of improving their lives," says Andrew Gansler, CEO of eLearners.com.
"Typically, we see a 15 [percent] to 20 percent increase in Web traffic, but no matter what time of year they enroll, we want them to be successful."
The guide offers a series of practical "how-to" guides that provide tips, resources and advice for studying online.
Tips
It offers these five tips for an adult considering going back to school, online:
Involve key people early on in the decision-making process of returning to school. Having the support of your spouse and children is crucial to your success, especially when you will need their help to take over household chores or be mindful of allowing quiet time for your study.
Enhance your written communication skills. To succeed as an online student, a crucial skill is the ability to explain your ideas in a clear and straightforward manner. A great resource for students to begin preparing themselves is the American Library Association's "Outstanding Books for the College Bound and Lifelong Learners."
Schedule between 10 and 12 hours per week for one three-credit course. Adult students often underestimate the total amount of time needed to devote to school.
Be confident in online learning. According to a new Sloan Consortium report, the proportion of academic leaders who believe online learning outcomes are superior to those for face-to-face has grown by 40 percent since 2003.
Fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Federal financial aid is not restricted by age - adult students may be eligible for grants and loans by logging onto www.fafsa.ed.gov.
The complete Guide to Online Education is available at www.eLearners.com.