E-learning has its detractors in the conventional learning establishment. The nay-sayers complain about the lack of rigor in some of the curriculum bores many students and that some on-line credits are not easily transferable to traditional schools. They are quick to point to high dropout rates and a lack of community among e-learners. But while their more traditional counterparts are working on negative spin, the e-learning community is working to create engaging curriculum and a better, more intimate sense of academic community. These e-learning innovators are using everything in their high-tech kitbags from gaming technologies to SKYPE – and the result is distance learning is just getting better and better.

In a recent article in US News and World Report, it is reported that 3.5 million students are heading back to the classroom…via the internet. How come? Well, the current economic situation has many college-bound students looking to shave any extraneous costs from their education budget, including steep dorm fees, expensive meal plans and even transportation costs. But budget concerns aren’t the only reason these students are logging on rather than packing up for traditional campuses.

Many ‘old school’ educators and educational institutions are embracing e-learning and the possibilities technology offers to expand course work with some exciting results. Michigan State University has created a math and science quiz website with a simulated game show format that allows students to monitor their grasp and retention of key curriculum concepts. At the University of Maryland’s University College online campus, online students of criminal justice can enter virtual crime scene and – using gaming techniques – conduct a forensic examination of the evidence. Some professors are creating on-line avatars via Second Life, giving their virtual classrooms a whole other dimension.

Technology also is playing a bigger role in establishing on-line class esprit and creating more contact between distance learning students and their professors. Many schools encourage fellow students to use chat rooms and social networking like Facebook and My Space to create a support network and study groups. Professors can have virtual office hours with their on-line students using instant messaging, email and SKYPE-like services.

If you are considering joining the ranks of the millions of e-learners, there are several excellent on-line resources that can help zero in on the right program. Top-Colleges has an extensive database of quality on-line and traditional colleges and universities, so explore the options. Get an overview of the courses, degree or certification requirements and the possibilities for financial aid. The first, best step you can make toward getting that prized diploma is in becoming a smart, informed education consumer.