The Benefits of Online Education: Why Take Online Classes?

Seven Main Advantages of E-Learning

Not so long ago, online education was not even an option when it came to getting a degree. Only a diploma obtained from a brick-and-mortar university or college was considered a gateway to career growth. The situation changed fundamentally in 2012 when two leading US educational institutions, Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard University, announced the launch of EdX — an online platform that let them transfer their training courses to the Internet. Now, many people can get a Harvard or MIT degree while living thousands of miles away. To get help with their academic papers, students can also use the essays, an online writing company, and Coursera, one of the most known online education resources which was founded by professors of Stanford University. Supported by more than 30 universities around the world, Coursera offers short video lectures, interactive independent tasks, and students’ mutual evaluation.

What is Online Education?

Today, online education is a term which can be applied to a wide range of educational programs, ranging from refresher courses to accredited higher education programs. They enable students to closely interact with their professors and fellow students using PCs connected to the Internet. To ensure effective virtual learning, a whole set of tools is used, including interactive computer software, e-mail, phones, and regular postal service. Online learning is becoming an increasingly popular way of getting an education. It removes the main barrier preventing many professionals and business people from continuing their degrees — the need to be physically present in the classrooms.

Seven Benefits of Online Learning

Thanks to the Internet and multimedia technologies, online education has not only become on par with the traditional training but also exceeded the latter in some aspects. So, what are the advantages of online training?

1. A Wide Selection of Educational Programs

The understaffing phenomenon prevents learners from getting what they desire. Moreso, a lot of schools lack equipment and resources to provide effective education. The Internet allows the applicants to pursue their degree without having to go through the inconvenience of their colleges lacking the necessary hardware.

2. Flexibility and Convenience

Online training provides one with a comfortable environment, flexible schedule, and tailored study programs. All it takes is a laptop or PC connected to the Internet. You can select professional tutors and manage your time as you wish. Online education makes the learning process more relaxed and comfortable, especially for slow learners and busy people.

3. Absence of Restrictions

Traditional education may not be suitable for working people with limited budgets. Online training is much more affordable, especially if one considers transportation or accommodation costs. Distance learning allows people to continue their studies without sacrificing their activities and obligations.

4. Psychological Comfort

By studying with a tutor remotely, students can choose their own pace of learning, thus significantly reducing the mental stress that comes with traditional education. They do not experience psychological discomfort when being compared with other students, either. E-learning is something that modern students who have practically grown up with computers and gadgets in their hands are quite comfortable with.

5. Expert Assistance

Today, online courses pay eminent scientists, entrepreneurs, actors, writers, and other professionals to give lectures in their respective fields of study. Just think about it — your online tutor can be a celebrity! Also, if a tutor has a community on the Internet, students can communicate with them and each other, thus solving their problems together.

6. Career Growth

Online education is indispensable in a fast-paced and highly competitive modern world. Both newbies and accomplished entrepreneurs turn to Internet services upgrade and enhance their skills and climb the career ladder faster. Online studying helps improve professional skills and master new ones without interrupting your current work. In some subjects, online education is the only way of getting the necessary knowledge and skills.

7. Individual Approach

Irrespective of your educational level, interests, a preferred form of lessons and their schedule, you can find online courses that will suit you. If you prefer studying with a tutor instead of scrutinizing books or want to choose one specific topic from a vast variety of options, you can always do so thanks to online education. If a student chooses to work in their own way, a distant tutor can give them as much time and attention as they need. Online learning is especially suitable for very busy people and those who do not like rushing.

Online Training in the Future

Online learning is often referred to as education of the future or an anti-stress alternative to traditional classes. A combined form of learning, in which online education is used along with regular teaching, presents a particular interest for academic professionals. The so-called “third generation” of online training has become a common and even mandatory part of curriculums in many educational institutions. While opponents and supporters still disagree about whether online education is better than traditional training, there is no doubt that it opens up more opportunities for people around the world.

This article does not necessarily reflect the opinions of the editors or management of EconoTimes.