As the world of modern technology continues to progress, access to non-traditional forms of education such as online learning is becoming more and more prevalent. The increasing prevalence of online learning is a great thing for many reasons, but determining whether it is right for you is contingent upon gaining a thorough understanding of its basic definition and characteristics. Once you have acquired this information, you will be prepared to decide if online learning will work with your lifestyle, educational goals, and income.
A Definition to Learn By
Although defined broadly, online learning generally references a form of education in which the student takes courses over the internet as opposed to learning in the traditional classroom setting. While similar to traditional learning in many ways, online learning typically features unique educational components such as blackboards.
These types of resources and components allow the student to go and access information about their courses, such as the syllabus, course documents, and more, through an always available interface. Just as traditional learners generally have a large variety of course offerings to select from, online learners can choose classes in subjects ranging anywhere from science to theology.
Internet Use and Technology
While gaining an understanding of what online learning is provides you with a basic framework of its structure and components, you should carefully consider the aspects of online learning that differentiate it from the traditional learning model before you decide if it is right for you. One of the primary characteristics of online learning is that classes are taking via the internet.
This means that you should have at least a working knowledge of computer technology before you decide to begin taking courses this way. If you are not internet savvy and are not self-motivated in acquiring new skills quickly, online learning may not be right for you. There are also hardware, software, and internet connectivity issues to make sure you have under control.
Flexible Schedules Abound
There may be deadlines, but you choose when things happen. Awesome-sauce.
In addition to understanding that online learning necessitates a working knowledge of how to use computers and the internet, you should grasp that this form of education generally gives students more freedom when planning their work and recreational activities. This is because while online learning includes courses with assignment deadlines, you do not have to physically be in the classroom at specific dates and times.
Oftentimes, a course will include video lectures that you can download and take notes on whenever it is convenient for you, whether that be noon or two am. For students who have jobs that require them to be on-call, the flexibility of online learning often makes it the ideal form of education to use.
More Qualities to Look For
There are a few other things that you should know about online learning, such as:
- Research indicates that there is no significant difference between a student’s ability to learn online versus in the classroom.
- Students who learn online tend to acquire transferable skills such as e-mail, web browsing, and even using advanced tools. This often gives them a great advantage when applying for jobs that are increasingly reliant on modern technology.
Conclusional Learning
Because of its characteristics and advantages, online learning is becoming an increasingly prevalent way for students to acquire an education. Once you have considered the basic tenants of this form of learning, you can decide whether it is right for you. Don’t forget that it’s perfectly acceptable to take a blended approach. Some classes work better online while others must be done in person. Do what works best and learn well out there.