Online distance learning is becoming a popular alternative to traditional-based classroom learning. And with an increasing number of acclaimed universities from across the globe offering accredited degrees through this method of teaching, it gives students a better chance of either improving their career prospects or changing their career.
Online distance learning is a form of self-study. And when you go to university, you are in effect, learning on your own. Yes, you are attending lectures, but let's face it, it's hard to listen to a lecturer who uses complicated language. And that's when it is crucial for you to go out and understand the learning material in your own time.
In a traditional classroom-based learning environment, you will be given assignments to either further enhance or test your knowledge. Whereas, with online distance learning, you're learning the material in your own time, and you can set out your own method to self-assess your understanding.
And if you think about it, that is what you are doing when you are revising for an exam. Many of us have experienced difficulty concentrating in class. And so when it does come to revising for exams, you are self-studying to get a better understanding of the material.
So saying that, anyone can do an online distance learning course. And the aim of this blog post is to share the 8 advantages of doing this type of course:
1. You Can Study In Your Own Time
Perhaps one of the most significant benefits of studying an online distance course is that you can study in your time. Traditional classroom-based learning keeps a very robust study schedule. But with online distance learning, you don't have to worry about sticking to a strict schedule.
You can learn at your own pace. And you can set your own times for what topics you want to study. You're in control.
2. You Don't Have To Leave Your Day Job
Online distance learning course gives you the option of gaining a new qualification whilst holding a full-time job. Many students have utilised the option of enrolling on to an online distance course as their first step towards a change in career. Whereas, with the more traditional classroom-based learning, and depending on the length of the course, you may need to leave your full-time position in order to attend the course.
This option actually reduces the amount of uncertainty involved and allows you to still receive a steady income to pay the bills as you study your course.
3. Support Is Available 24/7
A very common disadvantage that is brought up in regards to studying a course through distance learning is the feeling of isolation. Yes, it is true that with a classroom-based course, you will be interacting with classmates and with your tutor.
But many people do not know about the support that is available with an online distance learning course. Many online distance learning providers have their own forums and learning portals. And they also have contact details to their tutor as well.
Help is available 24-hours-a-day-7-days-a-week. And, most online distance learning courses abide to a policy where the tutor must respond within a certain time frame.
4. It's Cheaper Than Traditional Learning
The resources used to develop online courses are significantly cheaper than classroom-based teaching. And that's because a great deal of money is saved from hiring venues to deliver classroom-based teaching.
It is why the fees to enrol on to an online distance learning course is much lesser than traditional learning.
But it is not just the cost of development of courses which helps to bring the cost down for students. There are other factors that you can consider too. For instance, you can save money on travelling to class from home.
5. It's Flexible
Online distance learning courses are also becoming more of an attractive option thanks to the flexibility they provide. Most online distance learning courses don't have any strict deadlines. So you can complete an assessment in your own time.
This is perfect for anyone who is juggling a hectic work and family life but still want to progress in their career.
6. Gaining New Skills
Besides acquiring new knowledge and skills from your qualification, you also learn a very important skill. And that's self-discipline. It is true that a classroom environment can boost your motivation to study, but the studying that you do in your own time is all down to you.
Honing the skill of self-discipline is key to ensuring your course is successfully completed. There are many ways to attain self-discipline, whether that's through time management or organisation or setting realistic goals for your studies. Each one of us have our own unique style to attaining self-discipline.
7. You Can Gain An Accredited Qualification From Anywhere In The World
Universities from around the world are giving students a chance to gain an accredited qualification. An accredited qualification means that the qualification is either nationally or internationally recognised, and this depends on the awarding body of the qualification.
Certain university degrees do carry more weight than degrees awarded from other institutions. And this is a fact of life. The opportunity to complete a degree that is awarded by a highly respected university can really improve your career prospects.
And to be able to complete the degree in the comfort of your own home in another country should be taken advantage.
You have to remember that universities in countries like UK, USA and Canada attract more international students. And to be able to offer these students an online distance learning course is hugely beneficial.
8. Advancement In Technology
With online distance learning, you won't be stuck with a pile of books and just the course syllabus. Most online distance learning have utilised the different technologies to make the student's learning experience as interactive as possible.
Developers of distance learning courses use different kinds of mediums to deliver their teaching materials. There's written content, videos, podcasts and even interactive games.
Beside these resources, you can supplement your knowledge by consuming a whole host of available content on the web, whether they'd be blog articles or YouTube videos, the internet has a vast range of information available to you.
Final Thoughts
The advantages listed above show how online distance learning can be beneficial to you. And if you're stuck in an unfulfilling career, then an online distance learning is your first step towards a career path that is more rewarding.
You will not have to leave your day job because you can study in your own time. There are many online distance learning providers available that do a wide variety of courses. Simply open up your browser on either your PC, tablet or mobile device, and Google the name of course along with either the words “online” or “online distance” and you might find the course that you're looking for.
For university degrees, go on a university's website and see if they offer their degree via online distant learning. You have to keep in mind that not every university offers online distance learning so do some research and find the ones that do — this will vary on the type of course that you want to do, and which university offers the course.
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