Online learning is becoming a more mainstream approach to achieving educational and career goals. You might want to consider some of the benefits you can enjoy from taking part in online learning programs.
Across the globe, around half of students have completed some type of online learning. It is the fastest-growing market in the education industry and is projected to be worth more than $370 billion by 2026.
8 in 10 businesses now offer online education and training solutions with statistics showing it improves employee performance by 15-25%. Online education can increase student and employee retention by up to 50% and can even reduce the time it takes for a person to master a subject by 40-60%.
For individuals, upskilling in whatever form boosts a workers earning power. In one survey, nearly half (42%) of online learners said their courses increased their salary or bonuses by an avarage of $17,000 and $14,000 respectively.
Online learning technology to make learning fun and interactive with most students reporting that online learning is preferable to traditional education.
There are a myriad of reasons to opt for online education, this article explores some of the many benefits of online learning.
The key advantages of learning online
1. You will likely have more flexibility when scheduling your coursework
Scheduling your academic activities can be difficult, especially if you have professional or familial responsibilities. Fortunately, online learning can give you a lot more flexibility in this area.
2. You will probably save a lot of money
When learning from home, instead of a traditional classroom, you can save money in several ways. The first savings is on transportation: Not only will you save on fuel and car maintenance, but you will likely also save on additional costs, such as parkingand refreshments.
By the way, the cost of tuition can be less than many brick-and-mortar institutions because the school will not have the overhead costs of maintaining a classroom setting, so this can be advantageous for both parties.
3. You will likely be able to learn at your own pace
Honestly, life can get busy, and learning at your own pace is ideal for many. This is a great benefit if you are especially busy at work for a week or something significant comes up in your personal life.
You don't always have to be dedicated to getting to class at a particular time, so this can provide you with a lot more flexibility. In short, having a bit more freedom when it comes to your schedule can make a world of difference.
4. You can create your own learning environment
Maybe you prefer to listen to music as you study. Perhaps you like to light a candle and write in an especially thick, heavy notebook. On the other hand, you might want to type your notes on your desktop computer instead of your laptop. Whatever the case may be, you now have free reign over your own learning environment. The world is your oyster.
5. You can communicate with your professor at almost any time during the day
You can communicate with your professor at any time—more often than not—if you are working remotely. While they are not usually available late at night, you will likely be able to contact them from 9 am to 5 pm Mondays through Fridays with any questions you have.
In a traditional classroom setting, you will likely only be able to communicate one-on-one with your professor during their designated office hours, or maybe for a few minutes after class. When learning online, you will likely be able to communicate with your professor via email, live chat, or phone to get the feedback you need or assistance to help improve your online learning experience.
6. Chances are, it will be easy to access any necessary documentation
If you are at home, it will likely be much easier to access all necessary documentation, as well as a day planner you might have, textbooks you could be using, and more. You could even have a corkboard with sticky notes if that's what you want.
7. You will likely have greater access to the specific programs you want
There are almost always more options for learning remotely. For instance, you could get a degree in writing or enroll in seminary if that is your calling, because you can study from institutions in different states, and maybe even other countries in some cases. This is quite an advantage because you have a lot more flexibility when it comes to your subject matter.
8. You may gain new technical skills
Online learning will not only help you achieve your educational goals but can also help you gain new skills that will be beneficial when embarking on a new career. To complete your online studies, you will likely need to become familiar with many digital learning tools, content management systems, collaboration tools, and basic technical troubleshooting. However, there is often help available if these are challenging for you to navigate.
You will probably gain experience communicating remotely, which is becoming more and more common in businesses throughout the world.
In addition, you will probably become familiar with virtual programs, such as:
Skype
Dropbox
Slack
Trello
Microsoft Office
Pages
Keynote
Understanding programs can often provide you with the tools you will need to be successful in many jobs, and even the knowledge to complete quite a few creative projects.
9. You will likely learn how to self-motivate
Another skill that you will probably develop during the online learning process is self-motivation. In an online environment, you will probably have to learn proper time management skills and keep yourself inspired to complete tasks and stay on track so that you can complete the coursework on time. This will likely involve setting your own deadlines and constructing your day so that you can meet those goals. This particular skill can be seen as valuable to potential employers as they will probably view you as a self-starter who can tackle any project.
10. You will probably improve your critical thinking skills
Learning often provides the need to apply critical-thinking strategies to your daily routine. While this skill is also developed in a classroom, it can be more pronounced in an independent learning setting. This is because online learning is a more self-paced and self-motivated environment, so you may have to find ways to inspire yourself or think differently about a complex subject. In addition, the remote community of students may provide a wider array of perspectives if they are from all over the world.
11. You may broaden your perspective
Online learning programs benefit students from around the globe. This will probably provide for a broader range of perspectives in your online discussions and lead to improved cross-cultural understanding. Being exposed to new ideas, trends,and points of view by different students will likely enhance your educational experience and prepare you for your future goals in every area of life.
Whether you are looking for greater flexibility, you want to gain more marketable skills, or you are looking for the opportunity to learn in your own environment, online education can help you meet your goals and provide you with a myriad of benefits. Source:www.hospitalityinsights.ehl.edu
