Online learning has made a major impact in the world of education. Recent studies show that online learning is an effective and reputable way to earn a college degree.

Want to know more? This new article highlights some of the most significant findings from online learning research reports.

See Also:

• Is Online Learning Right for You?
• Top 5 Online Learning Myths

Since last August, everyone involved with online learning has been worried about the implications of the Higher Education Act (also known as the College Opportunity and Affordability Act of 2008). The student privacy clause requires online colleges to ensure that the person enrolled in the class is the same person that actually completes the work. Some have worried that schools would be forced to monitor students through webcams and other potentially invasive methods.

New word from federal officials has put many colleges at ease. eSchool News explains:

"Web-based college programs won't have to buy pricey monitoring gadgets like cameras and fingerprint or eye scanners to satisfy the requirements of a section in the recently reauthorized Higher Education Act, federal officials say. Instead, they say, exam proctors and secure logins will suffice to ensure honest test taking."

Many online students are also pleased with the news. The new requirements may not be as foolproof, but they leave much of the convenience of virtual learning intact.

See Also:

• Learn How the College Opportunity and Affordability Act Affects You
• Where Are Diploma Mill Degrees Illegal?

Many teens have been incredibly successful with learning online. But, others have fallen behind in credits and motivation, causing tension at home and stress in family relationships. If you’re grappling with the difficult decision of whether or not to enroll your child in a distance learning program, these three considerations may help.

See Also:

• Online High School Pros and Cons
• 10 Myths About Online High Schools

The Obama administration is currently drafting plans that would fund the creation and implementation of free online classes at the high school and college level.

Inside Higher Ed reports:

"According to the draft materials from the administration, the program would support the development of 20-25 'high quality' courses a year, with a mix of high school and community college courses. Initial preference would go to "career oriented" courses. The courses would be owned by the government and would be free for anyone to take. Courses would be selected competitively, through peer review, for support."

Proponents of the idea believe that government funded online courses could help citizens develop job skills and become more employable. Critics, however, contend that free online classes are already available in the private marketplace and that tax dollars should not be spent on this venture.

See Also:

• Explore Free Online Classes
• How to Earn College Credit by Taking a Free Online Class