As the world emerges from the pandemic, a new reality is taking shape: one in which online education is more important than ever. In this post, we’ll explore the case for online education and why it’s critical for professionals to embrace this form of learning. We’ll also discuss some of the key benefits that online education can offer. So, if you’re looking to expand your educational horizons, read on! You won’t regret it.
While far from a new concept, the pandemic era has accelerated and focused our thoughts that education needs to be more flexible. The way we teach and learn must (and thankfully) is changing, albeit too slowly to keep pace. Advances in technology are playing an increasingly important role as educators seek ways for their students’ learning experience not to just mimic traditional classrooms but rather better prepare professionals for today’s modern workplace. In this new world, online education must be given serious consideration. Here’s why.
This new post-pandemic world demands different skillsets–ones which much of our current educational system isn’t yet ready to provide. We need more than just an education, we need an education that can provide us with the tools to adapt when life throws our plans out the window.
What skills will you need when your job is sent overseas? When Excel crashes mid-report or when your IT department is slow to fix issues in Sharepoint? These are difficult problems and they require a much different approach to education to solve.
What we really need is relevant learning, not just learning for the sake of it. We need education that will go beyond basic academic skills and afford us the ability to put our best foot forward when faced with new challenges.
In a nutshell, an online education allows you to create your own path through learning, ensuring that you can be as intricate or as simple as you wish in following your desired curriculum. You have the flexibility to pursue the topics that matter most and gain real-world business experience without having to wait until after graduation–something employers value highly these days. Traditional universities don’t currently provide this level of customization but online learning does.
With a world full of opportunities opened up by technology and a new generation of professionals looking to build a better future, a flexible approach to education is the way forward. One lesson learned so far from the pandemic is that education cannot be totally dependent on delivery models bound to a specific time and/or location. Advances in technology have allowed for faster broadband, interactive & adaptive learning platforms as well as gamification which allow greater flexibility when it comes down to both what we learn and the pace we choose to learn it at. The dust has barely settled from this pandemic but it’s not too early to start preparing for what comes next!
Some things to consider when choosing an online course and course provider
While the flexibility that online education offers is pretty obvious, there are other important considerations that you should consider when choosing an online course and course provider.
Student support
It’s important to know what kind of assistance is available before you start taking lessons so that if there are any issues during your course load it will be easier to deal without the hassle and stress caused by unforeseeable circumstances! Some providers offer live chat or email support, while others provide instant message sessions. Are classes delivered live online, ensuring that you have access to a content expert during the programme?
Student interaction
The ability to interact with other students and learn from their experience is a key part of any educational program. What mechanisms does the Provider have in place for this? Do your opportunities allow for peer-to-peer interaction, such as speaking during class or access to a content expert?
Learning Management System (LMS)
Modern LMS’s put mobile technology first. By building tools that are optimised for smaller screens as well as pages that load fast and are easy to read and manipulate on mobile phones, the latest LMS’s are making it easier to fit online learning into your day-to-day routine. As a result, it feels like less of an effort to complete another chapter or work through the next module.
Course Recognition
Is the online programme credit bearing? Is it recognised internationally? Does it provide opportunity to pursue further learning? Gaining a credit-bearing internationally recognised qualification provides flexibility to pursue international career aspirations and opens up further education and professional accreditations.
Post-course supports
For many students, finishing a course can feel like an accomplishment. But what happens after you’ve finished? Your provider should offer post-course support through online communities and live events that encourage continued learning while providing opportunities for networking with other alumni who have been in your shoes before!
Job search support
Job search support is essential for those who are looking to advance their careers in new directions. Many professionals use online learning programs as a way of honing skills or re-skilling themselves. Transforming your new In-Demand skills into that lucrative job means convincing recruiters and hiring managers that you can deliver real value to their organisations. Job search support is an important aspect of the overall online learning experience.
Further Reading:
5 Advantages and 5 Disadvantages to Consider about Online Education