Ryan Battles
Computer Teacher
Delaware Christian School
Web Development Student

Why did you choose Franklin University?
Flexibility in scheduling and location were key for me. I really like being able to take classes at several locations, working in and around where I teach and live.

How does what you are learning relate to your profession?
I’m a computer teacher for middle school and high school students, so what I am learning is directly related to what I do all day long. With the industry-specific Web knowledge I’ll gain through the Web Development Program, I plan to build on my bachelor's degree and enhance my teaching qualifications. I'd eventually like to start my own Web development business.

What other commitments do you have in addition to school?
My wife is serving her residency as a pediatrician – she’s working about 80 hours a week in a hospital – so it’s up to me to take care of our house and two dogs. Also, I attend a Bible study on Monday nights.

How do you feel about being an adult student?
What’s different for me now compared to my previous education at a small private college is the total integration of technology – even in just five years, college has things changed a lot. For example, homework is due the first day of class because it can be communicated ahead of time via the Internet, instead of having to walk into class the first day and get the assignments.

What’s your perspective as a teacher as well as a student?
I’m a pretty forthright person, so I let my students know that I am back in school and a student now, too. They ask me how I’m doing in my classes and I ask how they’re doing in their classes other than the one I’m teaching. If I learn a helpful way to study, I share it with my students. Overall, I find it makes me more approachable and understanding.

Any thoughts about the curriculum? How the classes are taught?
I find it different – and refreshing – that Franklin is oriented around writing papers instead of taking tests. I love this! I think that’s an ideal way to learn. We do research about a subject and speak to it thoughtfully and thoroughly, not just cram for a test and theorize. It’s very hands-on learning.

The way Franklin has everything laid out ahead of time makes it easy to know in advance what’s expected for each course. And I admire how Franklin’s professors are so well organized. I’ve challenged and modified my teaching style to adopt some of their methods.

Any advice for future Franklin students?
I recommend Franklin for the flexibility and convenience. So far, I’m getting what I want out of the courses and am excited to know I can finish quickly through the 6-week class formats.