According to a recent eLearners article, taking courses online can help parents be a better example to their children. Here's a blurb:

"Instead of hearing you say, "Reading is important," your children will see you reading. When you make time to read, your kids will learn that reading is a valuable activity. Research shows that daily exposure to books and writing makes children better prepared to become readers and writers when they are kindergarten-age, and older children who read are more likely to become lifelong readers. Carve out some "family study time" each week and read together. Lesson learned: Education expands a reader's world, and reading leads to success in education.

You can tell your children to value education. But they'll really "get it" when they watch you putting this concept into action."

Clearly, actions speak louder than words. I definitely think parents can be a positive educational role model to their children without being students themselves. But, it is important that parents' actions show they value education.

Many parents worry that pursing an online degree will take time away from their family. But, if you're considering enrolling in an online college, don't forget to consider the positive effect of setting a good example.