online education | Distance Learning Systems (DLSI)

How to Maximize Your 529 College Savings Account with Non-Traditional Education

If you’re considering pursuing a college degree, you’re likely aware of the rising costs of higher education. Fortunately, there’s a versatile tool that can help you fund your college journey, even when taking non-traditional routes to complete general eds and prerequisite courses online.

In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn how to utilize your 529 plan for non-traditional education, such as completing college gen eds and prerequisite courses to earn college credits toward an accredited degree, the benefits, and the advantages.

What is a 529 Plan (College Savings Account)?

A 529 plan is a college savings account tax-advantaged investment program to help individuals and families save for future education expenses. These accounts are named after Section 529 of the Internal Revenue Code, and they come in two main types: prepaid tuition plans and education savings plans. Most U.S. states offer at least one type of 529 plan.

How to Use a 529 Plan for Non-Traditional Education?

Research Eligible Expenses: When it comes to non-traditional education, a 529 plan can be a valuable asset. Generally, you can use the funds for tuition, fees, books, and supplies required for enrollment. Importantly, recent changes to the law now allow you to use your 529 plan for specific online courses, making it a viable option for those pursuing a degree through online education platforms.

Confirm Accreditation or Course Recommendation: Before enrolling in online courses, ensure that the degree-granting institution is accredited or that the online educator’s courses are American Council on Education® (ACE) recommended. This type of accreditation or recommendation is critical to ensuring the award of college credit.

Understand Distribution Rules: To tap into your 529 savings, you’ll need to request a distribution. Be aware that you can only withdraw funds to cover the cost of qualified educational expenses, including online courses for general education and prerequisite credits.

Keep Detailed Records: Accurate records of your educational expenses are essential when using a 529 plan. This includes invoices, receipts, and documentation demonstrating how the funds were used. These records will be vital when requesting a distribution and reporting it to the IRS.

What are the Advantages of Using a 529 Plan for Non-Traditional Education?

Tax Advantages: One of the primary benefits of a 529 plan is its tax advantages. Contributions to the account are made with after-tax dollars, but the earnings in the account grow tax-free. When you withdraw the money for qualified educational expenses, those withdrawals are also tax-free. This triple tax advantage can significantly reduce the overall cost of your education.

Flexibility: Using a 529 plan for non-traditional education provides you with flexibility. You can choose from various eligible institutions and programs, including online courses. This versatility allows you to tailor your educational path to your needs and goals.

Contributions from Family and Friends: Another advantage of 529 plans is that family members and friends can fund them. This means that grandparents, aunts, uncles, and others can contribute to your education fund, helping you achieve your educational goals faster.

No Age Limit: Unlike other education savings options, 529 plans have no age limit for beneficiaries. This means that even if you’re an adult returning to school or pursuing education later in life, you can still benefit from a 529 plan.

What are the Benefits of Completing College Gen Eds and Prerequisite Courses Online Using a 529 College Savings Plan?

Convenience: Online education offers unparalleled convenience and flexibility. You can access course materials and lectures from anywhere with an internet connection, allowing you to balance your education with work, family, and other commitments.

Cost-Efficiency: Online courses often come at a lower cost than their traditional counterparts. You can save on commuting, housing, and meal expenses. Additionally, many online course materials are available digitally, reducing the need for expensive textbooks.

Self-Paced and Accelerated Learning: Online courses often allow for self-paced learning, giving you the flexibility to complete coursework on your schedule. This can be particularly advantageous if you work or have other time constraints.

Diverse Course Offerings: The world of online education is vast, offering a wide range of courses and programs. This diversity allows you to find classes that align with your interests and career goals.

What’s Next?

A 529 college savings account is a powerful tool for funding your non-traditional education journey, including completing general education and prerequisite courses online. By understanding the rules, benefits, and advantages of using a 529 plan, you can make informed decisions about your education financing.

As you earn college credits toward an accredited degree, remember to research eligible expenses, verify accreditation, and maintain detailed records. Take advantage of the tax benefits, flexibility, and potential contributions from family and friends that 529 plans offer.

Additionally, consider the benefits of online education, such as convenience, cost-efficiency, self-paced learning, and diverse course offerings. These advantages, combined with the financial support of your 529 plan, can pave the way for a successful college experience.

By utilizing your 529 plan wisely and embracing online education opportunities, you can achieve your educational aspirations while minimizing the financial burden. So, don’t let traditional barriers deter you—embrace the flexibility and financial advantages of a 529 plan to make your college dreams a reality.

Written By: Justin Hart

Distance Learning Systems™ Announces the Use of McGraw Hill Connect®

Distance Learning Systems™ expands online offerings with 16 new courses powered by McGraw Hill’s Connect® platform to improve the online student’s overall learning experience while enhancing instructor course management and strengthening the company’s online education product.

Distance Learning Systems™ is excited to announce the launch of new course offerings made available through a partnership with McGraw Hill and powered by McGraw Hill’s Connect and ALEKS digital learning platforms. Distance Learning Systems™ joins the 5,000 plus higher education institutions and 13,000 K-12 school districts that utilize McGraw Hill Connect and ALEKS across all 50 states. Distance Learning Systems™ courses with McGraw Hill integration deliver an adaptive, personalized learning experience that is efficient, effective, and customized to each student’s needs.

McGraw Hill Connect is a complete course platform that offers state-of-the-art features for students:

Stay engaged! Innovative learning experiences engage adult learners through multimedia resources, such as videos, simulations, and interactive exercises, to enhance understanding and retention of course material.
Learn faster! Instant feedback on assignments and assessments. Adult learners receive immediate insights into their performance, allowing them to identify areas of strength and weakness and make necessary adjustments to their study strategies.
Save time! Students can move at their own pace through eight content modules plus a final exam. Students can finish a course in half the time of a traditional class!
Use what you know! SmartBook®, embedded within Connect, offers an adaptive reading experience that allows students to move between reading, non-graded questions, and chunks of content to cater their experience to the concepts they need to learn.
Save money! Virtual Labs in the Connect platform allow lab courses to function completely online with no lab kit required, saving students money.

Distance Learning Systems™ is also proud to announce the use of McGraw Hill ALEKS for College Mathematics and College Algebra courses. ALEKS is an artificial intelligence-powered learning platform for math and chemistry courses that provides personalized, equitable support for learners. Constantly adapting to each student’s knowledge state, ALEKS guides students through learning in a seamless path while providing detailed data and feedback.

Beginning in September 2023, Distance Learning will offer 16 courses through McGraw Hill Connect and two courses through McGraw Hill ALEKS. Over the next year, the online education provider will be working to get 16 additional courses on McGraw Hill Connect and ALEKS.

About Distance Learning Systems™

Distance Learning Systems™ was founded in 1999. It originally focused on educational publishing, specializing in preparing individuals to pass nationally standardized proficiency exams. In 2007 the company expanded to an online learning platform to provide innovative, customized educational solutions and programs.

Distance Learning Systems™ (DLSII™) currently serves over 10,000 students nationwide with customizable, structured, instructor–led online classes. Students will rapidly complete multiple courses for college credit recognized by the American Council on Education’s College Credit Recommendation Service (ACE CREDIT®). An additional 2,000 U.S. institutions of higher learning also recognize and accept ACE CREDIT®.

Distance Learning Systems™ has helped over 20,000 individuals pursue higher education degrees across the United States. It is recognized as one of the country’s leading providers of online learning. The organization offers customized educational solutions and courses that provide transferable college credits to thousands of U.S. and international institutions.

Distance Learning Systems™ also offers online professional certificate courses for career skills training and advancement.

Written By: Dave Christy

Busting The Top 10 Myths About Taking Online Courses for College Credit and Earning a Degree Online

Today’s online education has completely revolutionized how people pursue earning college credits and getting a college degree. With the rise of online college courses, students can learn at their own pace, from the comfort of their homes or anywhere with an internet connection. Despite its growing popularity, some things surrounding online education still need to be clarified. Let’s debunk the top 10 myths about taking online college courses for college credit and earning a degree online.

Myth #1: Online degrees are less credible than traditional degrees.

Fact: Accredited online degree programs hold the same value as their traditional counterparts. Many reputable universities offer online programs that meet the same rigorous academic standards. Employers now recognize the legitimacy and quality of online degrees, making them equally valuable for career advancement.

Myth #2: Online courses lack interaction and engagement.

Fact: Online courses often incorporate various interactive elements to promote engagement. Discussion boards, video conferences, and collaborative projects facilitate meaningful interactions with professors and fellow students. Additionally, technological advancements enable real-time feedback and personalized attention, ensuring a rich learning experience.

Myth #3: Online degrees are easier to obtain than traditional degrees.

Fact: Online courses are designed to be just as challenging and academically rigorous as traditional courses. The curriculum, assignments, and exams are carefully structured to meet the same educational standards. The flexibility of online learning may require self-discipline and time management skills, but the difficulty level remains the same as with traditional programs.

Myth#4: Employers do not value online degrees.

Fact: Employers today value skills, knowledge, and experience over the format in which they were acquired. Many employers recognize that online degree holders possess valuable qualities such as self-motivation, time management, and tech-savviness. As long as the online program is accredited, employers will likely view the degree the same way as obtaining a degree the traditional way from an on-campus college or university.

Myth #5: Online courses need more practical experience.

Fact: Online programs have adapted to include practical components through virtual simulations, internships, and field experiences. Students can gain hands-on skills and expertise in their chosen fields by participating in online labs, completing virtual projects, or engaging with professionals in their local communities.

Myth #6: Online degrees are not suitable for socially inclined individuals.

Fact: Contrary to popular belief, online learning can foster a strong sense of community. Virtual classrooms provide opportunities for networking, collaboration, and discussion. Online students often connect through social media groups, online forums, and virtual study groups, creating a supportive network of like-minded individuals.

Myth #7: Online degrees are only available in limited fields.

Fact: The amount of online degree programs continues to expand rapidly. Today, you can pursue online degrees in various fields, including business, healthcare, technology, humanities, esports, game development, homeland security, criminal justice, and marketing, and the list continues. Whether you want to pursue a bachelor’s, master’s, or even a doctoral degree, online programs are available to suit your interests and career goals.

Myth #8: Online education lacks personalized attention from instructors.

Fact: Online instructors are committed to providing personalized attention to their students. Students can interact with professors individually through email, discussion boards, and virtual office hours and seek guidance when needed. Some online courses also offer one-on-one mentoring, ensuring a supportive learning environment.

Myth #9: Online degrees are not recognized by professional organizations.

Fact: Professional organizations recognize and accept online degrees, career skills certificates, and continued education completed online. These organizations understand the changing landscape of education and the value of online education and degrees. Always research and ensure that your chosen online program is recognized by the relevant professional associations in your field of interest.

Myth #10: Online learning is lonely and isolating.

Fact: While online learning requires self-motivation and independence, it doesn’t have to be a solitary experience. Online students can engage in virtual study groups, participate in online forums, and attend virtual events and conferences related to their field. Building connections with peers and instructors can help combat any feelings of isolation.

As online education continues its rapid growth, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic, it is essential to dispel the myths surrounding earning college credits online and getting an online college degree. Taking 100% online courses for college credit and earning a degree online can provide a flexible and rewarding educational experience. The credibility of online degrees, the level of engagement, and the practical experiences available are now on par with traditional education. By breaking down these misconceptions, aspiring learners are encouraged to embrace the possibilities offered by online education and take charge of their academic journey.

Written By: Justin Hart

How Online College Prerequisites Help Students Avoid Debt, Save Money, and Save Time

The cost of a college education is rising yearly, and many students are graduating with significant debt. However, there are ways to avoid student debt, and one of them is by taking online college courses. By taking college prerequisites online, students can save time and money and get a head start on their college education.

Online College Courses to Avoid Student Debt

Taking online college courses can help students avoid student debt in several ways. First, online courses are often less expensive than traditional ones, saving students thousands of dollars on tuition and fees. Many online courses also offer financial aid, scholarships, and grants, which can further reduce the cost of education. Second, online courses allow students to work while they study, which can help them pay for their education without taking out loans. Students can take online courses part-time or full-time, depending on their schedule and needs, which can help them balance their work and education.

Finally, online courses can help students graduate faster, reducing the cost of education. By taking online courses during the summer or winter breaks, students can earn credits towards their degree and complete their education earlier, saving them time and money.

Taking College Prerequisites Online Saves You Time and Money

College prerequisites are courses students must complete before taking higher-level courses that are also part of their degree program. These courses are typically lower-level courses in Math, English, Science, and other subjects, which are required for most majors. By taking college prerequisites online, students can save time and money and get a head start on their college education.

Save Time

Taking college prerequisites online can save students time in several ways. First, online courses are often more flexible than traditional ones, allowing students to study at their own pace and schedule. Students can complete coursework and assignments when convenient for them, which can save them time and help them balance their other commitments. Second, online courses often have shorter or more flexible course schedules, allowing students to complete the course faster. Some online courses are accelerated, meaning they are completed in a shorter period, such as six or eight weeks, instead of a traditional 16-week semester. This can allow students to complete the course faster and move on to finish their degree sooner.

Save Money

Taking college prerequisites online can also save students money in several ways. First, online courses are often less expensive than traditional courses, which can reduce the cost of education. Many online courses also offer financial aid, scholarships, and grants, which can further reduce the cost of education.

Second, online courses can reduce the cost of textbooks and materials. Many online courses use e-books, often less expensive than traditional textbooks. Some online classes also provide course materials online, which can reduce the cost of printing and shipping materials.

Get a Head Start on Your College Education

Taking college prerequisites online can also help students get a head start on their college education. By completing college prerequisites online, students can knock out classes and complete their degrees faster. This can help students save time and money and enter the workforce sooner. In addition, taking college prerequisites online can help students develop the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in their careers. Students can build a foundation for success by completing prerequisites online and gaining the confidence and skills needed to succeed in their careers.

Online college courses help students avoid debt and save time and money. By taking college prerequisites online, students can save time and money and get a head start on their college education. Online courses are flexible, less expensive, and offer financial aid and scholarships, which can reduce the cost of education. In addition, online courses can help students develop the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in their education and career.

Written by: Justin Hart

How to Balance Family, Work, and School While Taking Online College Courses

Balancing family, work, and school can be challenging, especially when taking college courses online. Juggling multiple responsibilities can often lead to stress, anxiety, and burnout. However, it is possible to balance these three aspects of life with a bit of planning and effort.

Here are seven tips on balancing family, work, and school while taking college courses online:

Create a Schedule and Stick To It

One of the most effective ways to balance family, work, and school is to create and stick to a schedule. List all your commitments, including work hours, class schedules, family obligations, and study time. Create a daily or weekly schedule that allows you to manage your time efficiently. You can use a planner or a digital calendar to keep track of your plan and set reminders for important deadlines and appointments.

Prioritize Your Tasks

When you have a lot of responsibilities, it can be easy to get overwhelmed. To avoid this, you need to prioritize your tasks. Start by identifying the most important tasks that must be done each day, such as attending classes, completing assignments, and spending time with your family. Then, prioritize your tasks based on their importance and urgency. This will help you focus on the tasks that require immediate attention and avoid wasting time on less important tasks.

Set Realistic Goals

When you are juggling family, work, and school, it is essential to set realistic goals. Be honest about how much time you can dedicate to each task and set achievable goals. For example, if you have a full-time job and a family to care for, it may be unrealistic to aim for straight A’s in all your classes. Instead, focus on doing your best and balancing your academic and personal commitments.

Communicate With Your Family and Employer

When you are balancing family, work, and school, it is crucial to communicate with your family and employer. Tell your family about your academic commitments and the time you need to study. Make sure they understand the importance of your education and how it will benefit your family in the long run. Similarly, inform your employer about your class schedule and any changes in your work hours. This will help them plan your workload accordingly and ensure that you have enough time to complete your assignments and attend classes.

Take Advantage of Online Resources

You can access a wealth of online resources when you are taking college courses online. Take advantage of these resources to help you manage your time and stay organized. For example, you can use online tools such as Google Drive or Dropbox to store your class notes, assignments, and other important documents. You can also use productivity apps such as Trello or Asana to keep track of your tasks and deadlines.

Stay Motivated

When juggling multiple responsibilities, it can be easy to lose motivation. To stay motivated, remind yourself why you pursued a college degree. Think about the benefits of education to your career and personal life. You can also join online study groups or forums to connect with other students and stay motivated.

Take Breaks and Practice Self-care

Finally, taking breaks and practicing self-care when balancing family, work, and school is essential. Taking regular breaks will help you recharge your batteries and stay focused. It is also crucial to practice self-care, such as getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, and exercising regularly. Taking care of yourself will make you better equipped to handle the challenges of balancing multiple responsibilities.

By following these seven tips, balancing family, work, and school while taking college courses online is very possible.

Written By: Justin Hart

Professional Certificates – An Employers Perspective

Years ago, when I first started flying, my flight instructor gave me advice appropriate for anyone involved in aviation. His advice was, “never stop learning.” Indeed, that was true for a new pilot, but even in an environment where life and death are not the issues, that advice always rings true. Many years have passed since my instructor challenged me to keep learning, and in all these years, I can honestly say that I’ve never once felt like I didn’t need to know more. There are always new technologies and challenges in business, and even our personal lives present new challenges almost daily.

Dating back to 1597, Francis Bacon coined the phrase “Knowledge is Power,” which Thomas Jefferson used when discussing the establishment of a state university in Virginia. In 1817 he also related knowledge with power, safety, and happiness. I think it’s widely accepted that there is a quantifiable benefit to knowledge.

Most everyone would agree that a university education lays the groundwork for a successful professional life, but today there are options that many employers value and support. These are professional certificates. We all know that a degree may prepare the holder for almost any type of degree, but professional certification does even more. A professional certificate provides focused training for a specific career. These could be in marketing, data science & analytics, environmental, social, leadership, business, finance, or hundreds more. Certificates are earned more quickly and at a significantly lower cost than a degree and may prepare you for that dream job!

As an employer, I view the holder of professional certification as:

A team member or applicant is someone committed to excellence
A team member who is committed to growing with the organization
An asset that helps build trust with clients
An individual interested in a long-term relationship with our organization

A professional certificate holder demonstrates:

Validation of Knowledge
Increased marketability
Increased earning power
Enhanced credibility

“Never stop learning” has served me well over the years, and this fundamental truth will work for anyone interested in growth. Several institutions provide this exciting growth opportunity, but you might explore certificates from Distance Learning Systems by visiting https://catalog.mindedge.com/dlsii. They also offer an accelerated and affordable path to over 450 online degree programs sponsored by major universities throughout the US.

Written By: Dave Christy

Distance Learning Systems Expands Online Learning Program with New Brandman University Partnership

Handshake Image — Distance Learning Systems and Brandman University join forces to offer an affordable and flexible learning format for students to earn an accredited degree online.

Distance Learning Systems has partnered with Brandman University to provide an online learning program enhancing and supporting educational goals. The Brandman Premier Partnership gives Distance Learning Systems’ students increased flexibility and affordability in their continued education.

“Education is vital for success in today’s employment market,” said Dave Christy, President of Distance Learning System. “Our partnership with Brandman allows our students the opportunity to earn college credits in an accelerated, cost-effective environment while staying current with industry demands within their field of study.”

As a Premier Partner, Distance Learning Systems has access to exclusive scholarships that can be applied to multiple pathways including many of its over 80 degree, certification, credential and professional development programs. Brandman also offers custom solutions for staff and provides student-centered services to support them through graduation.

Brandman programs are available at more than 25 campuses throughout California and Washington and online, and through Brandman MyPath, our self-paced online competency-based education modality.

About Distance Learning Systems
Distance Learning Systems, headquartered in Greenwood, Indiana, is believed by many to offer the nation’s most effective online learning platform where students maintain a 97% national average pass rate. Distance Learning Systems (DLSII), currently serves over 10,000 students nationwide with customizable, structured, instructor – led online classes. Students will rapidly complete multiple college level courses recognized by Brandman University. Additionally, 2,000 U.S. institutions of higher learning also recognize and accept ACE course credits. Note: The decision to accept specific credit recommendations is at the sole discretion of each college or university; however specific credit transfers between DLSII and Brandman University have been established. For more information visit: ec2-54-149-168-207.us-west-2.compute.amazonaws.com or call toll free 1-888-955-3276.

About Brandman University
Brandman University is a private, nonprofit institution accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC). It offers academic programs available at more than 25 campuses throughout California and Washington and online, and through Brandman MyPath, our self-paced competency-based education modality. Not all programs are available at all locations. Program availability is subject to change. To learn more, visit www.brandman.edu.

Distance Education Relevance

Distance education has gradually appeared as one of the most well-known ways to obtain information, with learners being able to access a versatile education and training that allows them to manage work and research. Distance education is a program that shows that education and training has no limitations and therefore no issue where we are, getting information is now more available globally. Distance education and studying is one of the recommended study methods these days. The fact that learners can learn from their home, as well as take their examinations through a number of online tasks and projects, is in itself so amazing. Gone are the days when one had to go to college to engage in a research subject, now studying is possible and only a few mouse clicks away.

It is a great way for the working experts to discover new places of research by applying on an online course. There are no set periods or schedules for an online course and you can choose your study periods according to your own routine and obligations. This way, not only will you be able to obtain additional information, but can also take a leap ahead and go up the achievements steps.

Because distance education is recognized as an extremely efficient method of training, academic researchers have analyzed the reasons and circumstances for which online learning is most effective. Commonly requested questions group in five areas:

Is technology-assisted, distant teaching as efficient as traditional face-to-face teaching?

What aspects determine the most beneficial mix of technological innovation in a given distance education situation?

What are the characteristics of efficient distance learners and teachers?

How important is teacher-student and student-student connections in the online learning process and in what form(s) can this connections most successfully take place?

What cost factors should be considered when planning or applying online learning programs and how are those costs balanced out by benefits to the learner?

Future of Higher and Distance Education

Just in case, just soon enough, just enough, just for me… What do these say about our degree components, the time (and resources) our learners need to finish full credentials developed in a past era and where the truth of obsolescence need different responses? These three experiences also provide some feeling of a possible upcoming gestalt of greater and online. In a course I am, I had to elaborate on the different opportunities for and difficulties in using asynchronous and synchronous technology in online situations. I also registered for the Open MOOC provided by Henry Siemens and Rory McGreal discovering the history of open knowledge. The third experience composed an involvement with a school in my home organization showing on issues about the number of our learners who do not finish a three-year bachelor’s degree in eight years’ time.

There is furthermore proof that non-academic aspects such as changes in clients’ life-worlds, institutional problems and macro-societal aspects, etc., effect more on clients’ choices to dropout or stop-out than educational aspects. The high dropout rate in distance education should therefore not be used as proof that learners studying through range and open studying are of smaller quality or have fewer prospects than learners in private colleges. Distance education and studying also draws different types of learners making any evaluation between complete prices in personal and online organizations trivial.

If we agree that most online learners take about 50 percent of the course load per season than private learners, it seems affordable that online learners finish a three-year bachelor’s degree program in six years. If we consider that learners do not complete all of their programs in time and may repeat programs, then eight years for a three-year undergrad certification does not seem to be irrational. How does this describe the 40% dropout and 30% that take more a chance to finish? It doesn’t…

Distance Education

Online or distance education is an area to train and study that concentrates on training techniques and technological innovation with the aim of providing training, often on an individual basis, to learners who are not actually present in a conventional academic establishment such as a classroom. It has been described as “a process to make and provide access to studying when the resource of information and the learners are divided by time and range, or both.” Online programs that require a physical on-site existence for any reason (including taking examinations) have been generally known as hybrid or blended programs of study.

The types of available technologies used in distance education are separated into two groups: synchronous studying and asynchronous studying. Synchronous studying technological innovation is a function of delivery where all members are “present” simultaneously. It appears like traditional educational setting teaching methods despite the members being located remotely. It requires a schedule to be organized. Web meeting, video meeting, educational video, Educational videos are examples of synchronous technological innovation, as are direct-broadcast satellite (DBS), internet radio, live streaming, telephone, and internet-based VoIP.

The asynchronous studying function of delivery is where members access course components on their own schedule and so is more flexible. Students are not required to be together simultaneously. Email communication, which is the earliest form of online communication, is an asynchronous shipping technological innovation and others include forum boards, e-mail, video and audio tracks, print components, voicemail messages and fax. The two techniques can be mixed in the delivery of one course. For example, some programs use regular classes of personal or day training to complement the distance education. Other technological innovation techniques used in the delivery of distance education consist of three-dimensional (3D) virtual atmosphere. A well-known 3D virtual world is used for synchronous and asynchronous studying.