Did you know?
Nelson Mandela in the face of unimaginable adversity earned his bachelor’s degree through distance learning corresponding with the University of South Africa via mail to submit assignments and receive feedback from his tutors.
What we are seeing now in these difficult times is such a need and the light that is being shed on already existing technology that can be used efficiently for this purpose.
So, let us take a look at this cost-effective addition to the education industry.
- The enrollment of students in online classes has been constantly increasing every year, this is especially due to the flexibility of e-learning, you get to schedule your classes in the times that suit you. Remember that it’s not compulsory that you have to do one full UG or PG course online, you can also be a student or anyone with free time in their hands, sign up for short-term courses and finish it at your own pace. This is of course a huge advantage to students who are trying to explore careers in entertainment and sports, these take a lot of concentrated effort and that is not something you can do on the side with traditional education. With online education, your time is truly yours.
(Source: KPMG report Online Education in India 2021)
- Let us talk about the biggest doubt students have before choosing online education. Is it worth it? What is the value of the certificates you get? Are employers going to consider it at the same level as a traditional college degree?
Based on where you do your course from and the type of course, is going to be the consideration point in validity. Certificate courses and other short-term courses simply add to your resume and portfolio, it helps you show proactiveness and an interest to learn more in your domain. Whereas, if we are talking about the many Diploma courses and other year or two long online courses certified by recognized universities, then where is the validity problem.
Technology is not a silver bullet. It’s only as good as the teachers… using it as one more tool to help inspire, teach, and work through problems – Barack Obama
- Cost-effectiveness is one of the major reasons why online learning is being preferred widely among students and professionals alike. E-learning brings down your expenditure vastly, it is not only about the cost of the course itself, but college itself is an increasingly expensive affair and that’s partly due to housing that you have to figure out if you are planning to study away from home. Online education eliminates such costs and you are able to save a ton of money if you are looking for a cost-effective way to gain knowledge.
- When it comes to anything online, there is never a lack of varieties. Online education is filled with courses that are extremely specific as well as very general, the options are virtually limitless, every new e-learning website you visit you will find a whole new list of courses for you to enroll in.
- Online education provides great access to resources and study materials and the online repository of resources are always available to aid you immediately. The carrying of a 5 subject notebook and keeping track of all the loose papers of notes are a thing of the past as everything is provided by the faculty online for you to access.
- One-on-one access to faculty has been the hallmark of e-learning, you are able to stay focused and learn much more in a short time. This also helps you slow down and ask your questions clearly and get satisfactory answers, you are also free to mail your questions and doubts right when you have them and the faculty can get to it at their earliest.
- Community of fellow students from all over the world pursuing your course becomes available to you for a greater exposure, you are able to explore new viewpoints, cultures, and ideas, and essentially enhance your learning experience. Providing a great boost to your communicative skills and cultural sensitivity, makes you highly desirable to employers.
- You are always on time, not only that there’s no traffic from your bed to your computer, but you also have the ability to choose from a few different schedules and even if you miss out on a lecture you are still able to view the recorded video and still ask your faculty your doubts if you have any.
- The convenience is huge, from heavy rain to scorching sun, online learning doesn’t have to stop, with internet connectivity getting better with time online education is also becoming a convenient option. Learning in a familiar environment has been shown to increase productivity and reduce anxiety and pressure.
- Online education is definitely staying for the times to come and is going to rapidly improve as it is also not without its faults, this is not something to be looked at with an either/or perspective but with an AND perspective.
In a conclusion, I leave you with this. adding to your skills and knowledge and building things out of it should always be your goal and how you do it, what ways you choose to do it should be considered with many of the variables in your life that dictate a decision like this. Are you someone who would enjoy the advantages above if you were to choose online education?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What are some advantages of online education?
A: Online education offers several advantages, such as flexibility, convenience, and cost-effectiveness. Students can learn at their own pace, from anywhere with an internet connection, and save money on transportation and accommodation costs.
Q2: Can online education help me balance work and study?
A: Yes, online education can help you balance work and study because it allows you to learn at your own pace and schedule. You can take classes outside of your work hours, and you won’t have to commute to a physical classroom.
Q3: Are online courses as effective as in-person classes?
A: Yes, online courses can be just as effective as in-person classes, and sometimes even more so. Online courses often offer more individualized attention and interactive learning opportunities, such as discussion forums and virtual simulations.
Q4: Do online courses offer the same level of interaction with instructors and classmates as in-person classes?
A: Yes, online courses can offer the same level of interaction with instructors and classmates as in-person classes, if not more. Many online courses include discussion forums, video conferencing, and email communication with instructors and classmates.
Q5: Can I get a degree entirely online?
A: Yes, you can get a degree entirely online. Many universities now offer fully online degree programs, which allow you to earn your degree without ever setting foot on campus. However, it’s important to research the accreditation and reputation of the university before enrolling in an online degree program.
