In Fall 2016, more than 6 million students in the United States took at least one course online. According to the Babson Survey Research Group, data from thousands of colleges and universities indicated this was a 5.6 per cent increase over the prior year. This says nothing about students from outside the US or those who took courses that were offered by institutions other than colleges and universities. However, the general trend is that enrolment in online courses continues to increase.
People are turning to e-learning for almost any type of training. Aspiring copywriters and marketers turn to sites like Mediabistro or Udemy. Skillshare hosts several practical courses in design, entrepreneurship, technology, photography and more. Information technology students turn to ITProTV. None of this should be a surprise when you consider the many advantages of online courses. Let’s discuss some of them.
Students can fit classes around other commitments
Many prospective students opt not to enroll in face-to-face classes because of the time they’re scheduled. They may have to work, look after elderly parents or care for young children. With online classes which they can take at any time, the problem is nullified. They can study at night or when they have time very early in the morning. Students can even watch lectures, participate in an online discussion or take quizzes as they commute to work on public transport.
Students can avoid lengthy, costly commutes
Sometimes students drop out of classes or show up infrequently because of the time and money it takes to get to the institution. With online courses, you don’t have to worry about spending more money on a class or trying to get to class in rush hour traffic. Online classes can be taken from anywhere. Instead of rushing to a college in the evening, you can spend an extra hour in your office engaging with course materials. If the weather is bad, you can stay in your cozy living room and complete your assignments.
Online learning is more engaging
Instead of being forced to sit and listen to a lecturer, e-learners are often engaged with the exciting material. They still have to read the required texts but they benefit from animated videos, interactive discussion boards, audio presentations and more. Some online courses can even be described as entertaining. The variety of ways in which course materials are delivered really makes a difference in how students absorb the information. The on-demand nature of many online courses also means that students can move quickly through sections of the course that are easy and then go slowly with a more difficult material.
Online learning can impress employers
There was a time when people were hesitant to say they studied online but that is no longer the case. In the 21st century, employers want to see that you know your way around the internet. Successfully completing an online course also shows that you are self-motivated and dedicated. It shows you really want to improve your skill set and that you have great time management skills. Just one caution: not all online courses are accredited so if your industry or job requires certain certifications or designations, choose your education provider carefully.
Enrolment in online learning is showing no signs of slowing down. That’s because both individuals and companies recognize it is an efficient and cost-effective way to increase skills and build competence. Online learning makes getting an education more accessible to many people.