Smart gadgets make online education easier

Online education is definitely evolving. A few decades ago, taking an online class was still a figment of the imagination, a process that couldn't possibly be the equivalent of those long hours in a classroom. Fast forward a few years, and the online education boom proved that flexible schedules and virtual classrooms could work wonders for those earning a degree while juggling work and family obligations.

Today, technology is faster than ever, and online education is keeping pace. A broader virtual world allows more freedom and flexibility than ever for online students, yet allows for the same high-quality education you have come to expect from online schools.

What is 3G? How about 4G?

3G is shorthand for "third generation" technology. This wireless technology allows you to stay permanently connected to the Internet, giving you the ability to send and receive messages, view web pages, chat online, view videos, participate in video chat and more.

3G technology is much more advanced than 2G, thanks to the wider frequency on which 3G operates. This means increased bandwidth, which leads to faster downloads and smoother streaming. 4G (fourth generation) trumps 3G for the same reasons.

What has 3G and 4G done for online education?

The simple answer: plenty! As Internet access speeds get faster and become mobile enough to work anywhere your phone can get a signal, your potential for online study grows by leaps and bounds. A short decade ago, attending an online class meant being near a computer modem. These days, your online class goes with you on your smart phone.

Advanced technology is a good thing for teachers, too. As the streaming and download capabilities of our gadgets increase, professors have more freedom to teach the way the want and in whatever medium they choose. For instance, a short lecture video of two minutes in length was tough to handle back in the days of dial-up modems and floppy disks, which meant that video lectures were a largely avoided educational tool. Today, a 4G phone can stream a much longer video almost instantly, while still allowing you the speed to chat with a friend and look at email--all at the same time, on the go.

Smart gadgets you need right now

Before that online class starts, take a look at the gadgets that can help you manage time, handle classwork and make the most of your online education:

• Wireless Internet card. Ditch all the time you spend looking for a cafe or coffee shop that offers a free wireless connection. With your own Internet card, get connected anywhere.
• Video chat programs. Though online education is a solitary affair, you can still get in face-time with fellow students and teachers through video chat programs. Popular programs like Skype are free to use, easy to download and get you connected with a few clicks.
• Soundproof headphones. When you're in the midst of studying for that midterm exam, the last thing you need is distractions at your favorite study spot. Invest in high-quality soundproof headphones to help you focus on what you need to learn.
• Digital calendars. Keeping up with your busy schedule is not easy, but technology can make it easier. Digital calendars that send reminders to your desktop or phone can be a great way to keep track of assignments, homework schedules, meeting times for video chats and all the other obligations of your life outside of school.
• Organizational apps and software. While you are downloading that digital calendar, why not try out other organizational applications for your laptop or smart phone? Applications that keep track of your notes, highlight terms and keep track of references are top-notch goodies for the online student. Items like CourseSmart, which includes textbooks from major publishers, can help you get even more information for your online class success.
• iPad. It might not be a must-have just yet, but tablet computers like the iPad are revolutionizing the way students study. Rather than carrying around a laptop with the traditional keyboard and clicking mouse, the iPad brings education right to your fingertips. With apps that easily transfer from the screen to your phone, the iPad can make the educational experience seamless.

Technology is booming, and online education is booming with it. Jump on the gadget bandwagon and hang on for the ride!

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