The Accessibility of Online Learning

According to information gathered from 1996 to 1998, approximately 72% of post-secondary enrollment in the United States were from students with various disabilities.

Disabilities can range from moderate to severe, and include things such as mental illness, sight, hearing, or otherwise physically impaired individuals. Considering the number of students with disabilities pursuing post-secondary education, it’s no wonder online learning has taken off dramatically. A noted authority recently reported an online course enrollment increase from 1.98 million in 2003 to 2.35 million in 2004. Why the increase? Accessibility. Whether students are striving toward a bachelor business degree online, or a general business degree online, accessibility is key to persons with disabilities.

Many well-known colleges and universities offer online learning, giving students the ability to obtain necessary credits toward a degree, or complete an entire degree online. As long as you have regular access to the Internet, have basic computer concepts mastered, and are a self-directed learner, online training might just be the best option for you. If you’re a student with a disability, discuss your learning options with the college or university’s registrar. The school may have a disability resource person on hand to help you with any technical requirements related to online learning.