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Why I love being an online student

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By Daryn Bryden
I love being an online student.  I admit that when I started the MSIDT program I was anxious.  After all, it is 100% online.  However, now that I have completed all my course work and am now beginning the process of completing my digital product and written project (sometimes known as a “Thesis”) I wanted to explain exactly why I love being an online student.  

  1. I am pursuing my passion — eLearning.  
I chose the MSIDT online program because I am pursuing a passion that didn’t fit in the traditional school system.  I work 40+ hours a week, but being an online student has allowed me to push out of my comfort zone, take risks, and I am all the better for it.  

  1. I can focus on my work without distraction. 
Being an online learner has meant that I can dedicate my time to the work, not my social life.  While I’d much rather be at Disneyland than sitting at the kitchen table writing a literature review, being an online student has meant that I can focus on my work — 100% of my study time.  This hasn’t been easy, nor has it always been fun.  But the benefits of working from home has made all the difference.  

  1. I can move at my own pace. 
Because of my schedule I’ve been able to get the work done at my own pace.  This has meant that I have been able to move at a quicker pace while still receiving additional supports if necessary.  

  1. I thoroughly enjoyed sharing thoughts and ideas.  
One of my favorite things about being an online student was the weekly discussion boards.  I loved reading and responding to as many of the posts of my classmates because I was able to learn from them in profound ways.  The discussion board environment provided me with many chances to share thoughts and ideas where the playing field is leveled.  

  1. I can learn with a schedule that meets my needs.
Many people have asked me “Don’t you miss the traditional classroom environment?”  Honestly, I can’t imagine learning in a “traditional” manner after taking this program.  Being an online student means that I have been able to work when I want, where I want.   

  1. I can learn despite health issues that might get in the way in a traditional class setting. 
Over the Summer of 2017 I experienced a very serious health issue.  I was hospitalized and had to take a medical leave from my job for a few months.  It was also during this time that the MSIDT became very rigorous. If I had been in a traditional program I would not have been able to attend classes.   Had it not been for the fact that I could work in my pajamas at the kitchen table I am certain I would have had to drop out.  

  1. I can easily communicate with my teacher when I need to. 
The majority of MSIDT professors have been INCREDIBLE.  I have been able to schedule video chats, calls, and even exchange text messages.  With these structures in place I have been able to easily communicate with my teachers leaving me feeling supported and connected.  

  1. My cohort classmates have become friends
This program encourages students to become connected and communicate with each other.  The online environment makes it much easier to connect with each other about our studies, or just to blow off steam in both synchronous and asynchronous environments.  I have worked with people from all over the state of California and Arizona and we have a special bond.  I am proud to call them key allies and friends.   

Thank you to my brilliant and talented MSIDT cohort and alumni.  You have pushed me to become a better Instructional Designer, a scholar, and a better person.  


Thank you, Dr. Cynthia Gautreau and all the MSIDT professors.

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