People imagine online students to be solitary figures, isolated behind a screen. That image might be appealing when you want the flexibility of a self-paced online college. Everything is on your time, your schedule, and not beholden to anyone else.
But attractive as that is, many prospective students also wonder about the “human element.” They’re not sure they can succeed without connection, a sense of belonging, and even personalized support. These students need to learn at their own pace without feeling alone on their journey. This can be especially important for those taking classes for the first time in years, or who have little previous college experience.
How can an online college foster the connection crucial for success?
That’s why Calbright has developed a multi-faceted approach to community building, personalized guidance, and emotional support, proving that even in a flexible, autonomous, digital environment, strong relationships can thrive.
The Calbright online community college model is full of touchpoints and resources designed to foster a vibrant learning community and provide robust personal support for students.
Beyond the Screen: Cultivating Connection Among Students
One of the key ways Calbright builds community is through structured yet informal opportunities for peer-to-peer interaction. Students are encouraged to connect through:
- Virtual Study Groups and Forums: Within each program, dedicated online forums and collaborative spaces allow students to discuss challenging concepts, share insights, and offer mutual support, whether you’re a student in the Cybersecurity or HR Learning and Development program. These aren’t just Q&A boards but dynamic spaces for shared learning and problem-solving.
- Live Online Sessions: While the core learning is self-paced, Calbright often offers optional live online sessions, such as Q&A sessions with instructors, workshops on specific skills, or career development seminars. These synchronous events provide real-time interaction and a sense of shared experience.
- Project-Based Learning and Collaboration: Many of Calbright’s programs incorporate projects that require students to collaborate virtually. This not only hones essential teamwork skills, crucial in today’s workforce, but also builds camaraderie as students work together to achieve common goals.
- Social Online Groups: Beyond academic interaction, Calbright often facilitates informal social groups or channels on Slack where students can connect on topics outside of coursework, fostering a sense of shared identity and belonging within the larger Calbright community.
This approach transforms what could be an isolating experience into one of shared learning and mutual support, demonstrating that a self-paced online community college can indeed be a communal one.
Your Personal Team: Unwavering Individualized Support
Beyond peer connections, Calbright excels in providing a comprehensive network of individualized support, ensuring that every student feels seen, heard, and guided. Every student has a personal team focused on their success, including:
- Dedicated Success Counselors: Each student is assigned a personal Success Counselor who serves as their primary point of contact and advocate. These Calbright staff offer individualized guidance on time management, motivation, overcoming challenges, and navigating the nuances of online learning. They are a consistent source of encouragement and accountability.
- Expert Instructors: While the learning is self-paced, expert faculty also offer deeper insights on program material, providing feedback on students’ work, and answering questions. Instructors are accessible and committed to helping students master the subjects they’re studying.
- Career Specialists: Students are pursuing education and job skills training for career advancement, and Calbright offers robust support in career services. Career Specialists help students with resume building, interview preparation, job search strategies, and connecting with potential employers.
This multi-layered approach to support ensures that Calbright students never need to do online classes alone. Whether it’s an academic challenge, a personal hurdle, or a career question, there’s always someone at Calbright ready to lend a hand, offer advice, and celebrate students’ progress.
Calbright is redefining what a self-paced online community college can be. It is both high tech and high touch. By strategically fostering both peer connections and comprehensive individualized support, we’re not just delivering education and job skills training programs. We’re building a vibrant, supportive community where adult learners can thrive, connect, and ultimately achieve their career aspirations.
It’s a testament to the fact that even in the digital realm, human connection remains at the heart of meaningful learning.
