The combination of tough economic times and stories of impending doom have caused crucial introspection for most people. This article is in response to a number of questions readers have sent to educationline.org.

Eric Hoffer offered a quotation that is very fitting to set the pace for this article. It goes as such: In a time of drastic change it is the learners who inherit the future. The learned usually find themselves equipped to live in a world that no longer exists.

As a general rule, our readers write to find out what are the best online education universities, classes, colleges, degrees. However, as of late the questions have become much more focused on career training and whether or not now is a good time to continue complete or enhance their education. Here are the top three questions and answers:

Q. I have an undergraduate degree, and am a professional. Should I consider completing my full degree even with rumor of layoffs in my industry? Sometimes it is best to answer a question with another question. Where do you want to be in 10 years? If you go back to University on a full time basis, you would have to quit your job now and invest in your education further. Now looking at a 10 year term, if you consider online education you can do it on a part time basis to complete your degree. This will give you an upper hand on your future job seekers.

Q. I recently became a victim of a layoff, I am considering changing my career but I dont know what to take? Take a step backwards, think what appeals to you. Look into educational facilities, both online and as well night classes or weekend classes. Do a bit of research into what prospects are out there in the world for those skills. Are they really marketable? Consider going to do some online research into salaries and requirements for those careers. A very good source of information for this is Monster.com, jobboom, as well as local employment agencies websites.

Q. I have decided to go back to school. Im not sure if I should go full time, part time (nights and weekends) or online? A. You need to think about your finances here. Can you afford to go back to school full-time? Now while attending part-time takes more time, it is generally much easier on your pocket book. In addition, you can pay as you go versus paying an entire semesters fees. Another viable alternative is online education, again you can do it at your own speed and pay as you go.

Tough economic times are generally a good time to evaluate where you are and where you need to go. Things you should be asking yourself is: Is my income sufficient? Is my career rewarding? Is my career in jeopardy? With jobs becoming more difficult to find, upgrading your education gives you a definitive edge. Our recommendation is pursuing your education online due to the versatility and availability of online education degrees.