“I think this is great for people who would have a hard time getting a master’s degree the traditional way,” said Atwater, who received her undergraduate degree from Georgia State in 2008. “It appeals to a broader set of people.”

Atwater began taking classes in August 2009 toward a Master of Education in Reading, Language and Literacy with an emphasis in English for Speakers of Other Languages – one of four online degree programs Georgia State’s College of Education features on Georgia ONmyLINE. In this program, she and her fellow students discuss teaching in a culturally diverse classroom and the challenges associated with teaching ESOL students.

Interacting with other students through the discussion boards has been one of the highlights of Atwater’s experience with online learning.

“The majority of students are currently working in the field, and they share their experiences with the group,” Atwater said. “It’s nice seeing the same names in each class and getting to know these people.”

Atwater will graduate with her master’s degree in December and is looking forward to applying what she’s learned to her work in the classroom.

“I think this program will better equip me to work with children with special needs,” she said. “I would highly recommend this program to other people. It’s made getting my master’s degree a lot easier.”