Online Schools with Programs in Small Engine Repair: How to Choose

Small engine repair programs, though prevalent on college campuses, are very rare online. Students may be able to find some course content by distance learning and attend local institutions for other components of their training.

How to Choose an Online Small Engine Repair School

Program Availability

Online programs with the specific purpose of teaching students about small engine repair are very rare. While some related programs, such as auto mechanic career diplomas, are slightly more common, even these are few in number. This is because engine repair is an on-hands discipline that is often best taught in-person in an environment where students can practice while they learn, usually in an apprenticeship format. While students may find the type of program they require online, it is likely that a wider variety of options will be available at a local community college or trade school.

Effectiveness and Hands-On Elements

Because of the hands-on nature of small engine repair, programs that are able to demonstrate the hands-on aspects of a task to students, usually through video or some other multimedia presentation, are often more effective than programs that use text instructions. This is especially true in a discipline where students must troubleshoot problems with worn or broken engines. Before enrolling in a small engine repair program via the Internet, students should examine a program's details, usually made available online by the institution offering the program, to be sure they are satisfied with the media and format of the program being offered.

Online Programs for Small Engine Repair

Small Engine Repair Career Diploma

Small engine career repair diplomas are usually delivered primarily via textbooks that are delivered to a student's home shortly after they enroll in the course. Students may also have access to such features as online libraries and online testing capabilities, and student-instructor communication is usually handled via e-mail. However, physical textbooks are the primary lesson delivery method. Normally, courses are offered with flexible deadlines that allow students to set their own work schedules.

Auto Mechanic Career Diploma

An auto mechanic career diploma, while more common than a small engine repair career diploma, is still not common and may use the same delivery methods as a small engine repair diploma. The focus of an auto mechanic program is often broader as well. While engine repair is still covered, other parts of a vehicle, such as the brakes, emissions system, electronics and drive train are also included in course materials.