With technology growing in usage and capabilities every day, the use of online college classes has become a major part of student life across the world. Perhaps one of Eastern’s most lucrative changes in the past 100 years has been the decision to invest in online degree programs, keeping us from the danger of being shut down like so many other small private colleges. According to the Philadelphia Inquirer, these low-cost graduation programs solved “the problem of stagnant tuition revenue.”
So, if you are an Eastern commuter with a lengthy drive or campus resident with a jam-packed schedule, an online class might be the best way to save your time and sanity. Online classes provide commuters the chance to spend fewer days per week on campus, thus sparing the gas money and energy used to commute. For campus residents, online classes make scheduling semesters easier and allow more time for clubs, socialization, and rest.
In addition to the possibility of being an off-campus student and earning a degree fully online, Eastern University now allows in-person students to complete courses entirely online through synchronous or asynchronous undergraduate classes.
Online synchronous classes are remote learning options which follow the schedule of in-person classes. They run on a weekly schedule with mandatory due dates for assignments just like any other course. Online synchronous classes run on the typical 16-week semester schedule while giving students the ability to complete their daily tasks from the comfort of their own homes (or dorms)!
Online asynchronous (FLEX) classes are similar to synchronous classes in that they allow students to work remotely for the same reward as in-person courses. However, these classes take place over only seven weeks of the normal semester, causing the students to need to work more quickly to complete tasks. Because of this, the due dates on FLEX assignments are not mandatory, but rather a suggestion to keep the student up to date and on track to complete all assignments on time.
Synchronous and asynchronous classes are available in a variety of different subjects and are helpful when completing both mandatory courses and electives. They allow students the freedom to spend more time resting in their dorms or spending time at home with their families as opposed to spending every day running around campus to a multitude of classes.
Consider enrolling in an online course during your next semester at Eastern and think of all the ways you can make use of your new free time! Your future self will thank you.
Molli Sider-Rose 
Katherine Thomas 
Adaelle Stobie