Facilitating Online Learning through Student Service Solutions

Online support systems enable educational institutions to provide students with the same services as offline students.

FREMONT, CA: Institutions are offering online programs. Online students can access the same services as offline students. Institutions are increasingly developing programs for online learners and need to develop support services for them. Research shows 75 percent of online programs with support services observe student success and improve college access and outcomes. Support services make online students feel included in the program and create a virtual community. Accessibility of online services encourages student continuation and a higher graduation rate.

Offline students have better access to admissions, academic, and financial aid. Many institutions are facilitating increased enrolments and better educational experiences through support services.

Admissions support: Online admission support provides the same features offline services provide. It facilitates online enrolments and pre-admissions support. Students have better accessibility to orientations, coursework, authorizations, costs, and financial aid. Online colleges find new solutions to work with and support potential students. Universities can pair possible learners with dedicated admissions specialists on online platforms. Online programs also host information sessions and orientations online.

Financial aid: Financial aid supports students with tuition options early in the admissions process. Students from specific student groups, like active military service members, can approach financial support services for grants and scholarships. These services update enrollers on federal financial aid and other options.

Aid advisors guide students through the complicated online admissions process and address relevant financial aid programs, eligibility requirements, and application procedures. Online services can provide self-service solutions.

Academic Advising: Students can better understand available programs and coursework. Advisors address concerns regarding academic majors, specialty tracks, and courses. They help students map and plan their coursework by setting goals and study strategies through calls, online chats, and virtual meeting rooms. Academic advisors also predict which courses a student can take to maximize their chances of completing and scoring well. Online services run during holidays, weekends, and off-hours as well.

Technical support: Online students face regular technical issues that inhibit their learning and access to their assignments. Learners can approach online technical support systems when they cannot access computers or navigate digital learning platforms. Students with online difficulties are unable to progress in their programs. Colleges can publish online guides and tutorials on troubleshooting options and learning management systems (LMS).