For those looking to undertake further training or learn a new skill, the growth in online learning options means it’s now possible to study a range of subjects from the comfort of your own home. And what’s more – there are many unique benefits to doing so!
Check out just a few of the benefits of online learning…
1. Enjoy the flexibility that comes with online study
One of the main benefits of online learning is that you have the freedom to set your own study routine, because you aren’t tied down to a fixed schedule.
This means you can shape your programme around your existing commitments! Imagine having complete control over when, where and how you study – that’s exactly what online learning gives you…
2. Study at any time
Night own or early bird? Studying online means you can study whenever you want – on your lunch break, late at night, early in the morning or even at weekends!
3. Study anywhere
No college attendance is required for distance learning programmes meaning you can often study from anywhere – at home, at work, on the train, in the UK or even overseas!
4. Learn at your own pace
Online learning means you can study by your own rules, without the pressure to keep up with other students in a face-to-face environment. You may pick up some lessons easily, whereas you might need extra time to understand other concepts. Either way, you can manage your time accordingly to ensure your optimal progress through the course.
5. Benefit from expert, one-to-one distance learning tutor support
Many online programmes offer remote support from tutors with a wealth of industry experience and skills to help you achieve your full potential on the course.
Often in classroom-based courses, the tutor teaches and provides support to a group of students, with some students sometimes demanding more time and attention than others.
With some online learning programmes, remote support means you may receive more personalized, one-on-one help. What’s more – often you can access help via a range of methods including telephone, skype and email at shorter notice. This increases the chances of you performing well, as you can easily access tutor advice and guidance when you’re stuck.
6. Cut your training costs
Studying a course online allows you to save money on all the associated costs that come with classroom-based learning. You won’t have to pay for on-campus accommodation or textbooks, arrange for childcare cover in order to attend classes, or spend money commuting to physical classrooms. Fuel, parking, car maintenance or public transportation costs won’t affect the online student!
7. Find your online communities
Online learning doesn’t mean you have to study alone! You can still gain the community face-to-face learning gives you by studying remotely with others, either by joining online communities that focus on common subjects, or contributing to course discussion forums.
Remote collaboration requires no more than a computer, a headset to listen and talk in, and the time to join others virtually. You can swap ideas about classroom assignments; brainstorm using virtual whiteboards and get questions answered about the things you’re stuck on.
Not only this, but the world goes way beyond a physical classroom! Online learning opens up the opportunity to network with fellow students from across nations or even different continents.
8. Boost your career prospects
Without the structure of face-to-face classes to keep your study routine on track, in order to effectively manage your time and tasks you will naturally develop the soft skills and traits that employers look for, including self-discipline, self-motivation and time management!
Undertaking an online course can also help you learn the skills needed to gain a promotion or change careers without neglecting your existing professional commitments and aspirations.
9. Get ahead with the most varied and up-to-date learning materials, accessible 24/7
One of the other great benefits of online learning is that you’ll often get to learn using a range of different materials and resources – from videos and webinars, to quizzes, podcasts and presentations. Additionally, as knowledge of certain subjects continues to grow and evolve, paper textbooks can become unreliable. With online learning, the course developers and instructors are able to keep materials up-to-date more easily.
What’s more – as all course materials are provided online, you can access them whenever you want. Even if it’s 3AM, if you want to access your materials to reinforce concepts and theory you might be stuck on – you can do that. It’s also much easier and quicker to find relevant sections and take notes via online navigation.
10. Receive the same kudos as traditional learners
If the course you decide the study offers both an online and a face-to-face option, don’t make the mistake of thinking your choice will impact the value of the final qualification. Whether you choose the distance learning or face-to-face option, you will be provided with the necessary resources and materials needed to succeed, and the value of the qualification at the end of your studies will be the same.