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Online learning is an option that is gaining popularity among students in Canada. According to the Canadian Online Education Research Association , only 11% of college admissions were fully online in September 2019. By January 2021, with the pandemic in full swing, online learning was at 71%.
Of course, the numbers for fully online admissions may have slightly declined since the easing of health restrictions. However, it is expected that online learning will remain in high demand even after the pandemic.
The convenience, accessibility and flexibility of online courses are the undeniable reasons for this preference among students.
In this article, we will introduce you to the basics of online programs. We will also introduce you to the 12 most important advantages of this mode of study. If you are curious to know what it is, continue reading this bias on the advantages of online learning!
HOW ONLINE PROGRAMS WORK
Online programs can be synchronous (simultaneous) or asynchronous, although some pathways combine elements of both modes.
Synchronous classes are real-time, meaning students log in at specific times. They can ask questions and interact in various conversations in real time, much like in-person classes.
Asynchronous courses do not have specific class times. Students access class recordings and other content on their own schedules.
Some online programs, such as many offered by Herzing College, also include internships or practicums. These placements provide valuable professional experience with organizations in your area, but must be completed in person.
Keep in mind that some online courses may require you to be on campus occasionally.
BENEFITS OF ONLINE LEARNING
Taking an online course gives you the following possibilities:
1. Fit your studies around your other commitments
Studying online gives you the flexibility to design your schedule according to your needs. You may have to log in at specific times for a group discussion or a real-time class. However, many programs give you the opportunity to interact with course content and complete assignments at times that are convenient for you.
If you’re looking to continue your education without giving up your full-time job or compromising your family obligations, an online program might be the right option for you.
In fact, according to the 2022 Online Education Trends Report , it is this ability to fit studies around work and family obligations that is the main reason why students choose to study online rather than in-person.
2. Study anywhere
This benefit has two parts.
First, online learning is not dependent on a specific geographical location; you have no limits when it comes to choosing programs available in your area. There is no need on your part to relocate and move to another city; you can access an online course from an institution located thousands of kilometers away, and all without depriving yourself of the comfort of your home.
Second, you can pursue your studies at your leisure if you wish. As long as you have an internet connection, you can continue your studies at a coffee shop, on the bus, at a friend’s or relative’s house, in a hotel, or anywhere else. This way, you can indulge in digital nomadism.
College student wearing headphones, taking notes while looking at his laptopOnline learning means you can study wherever you want
3. Create your own learning environment
Online learning gives you the freedom to set up your workspace according to your own parameters. Students who attend classes in person can also set up their workspace from home; the difference is that online students have the advantage of doing all their learning in their own personalized space.
Do you like to sit by a window? Do you want to avoid fluorescent lighting? Do you want to block out ambient noise? Do you want music in the background? Go for it.
You can choose your own seat, adjust the height of your keyboard, or even work from your kitchen if you feel like it.
Having control over your learning environment can be a huge advantage, especially if you have specific functional needs or sensory sensitivities.
4. Take control of course materials
In a traditional lecture, you only have one chance to write down everything you need to memorize. In contrast, with a recorded lecture, you can stop and replay the video as much as you want. You could target the key points first, then take the time to write everything down in detail later.
Additionally, when text or written content is digitized, it gives you the ability to search for important keywords and concepts more quickly.
Since online learners have continuous access to course content, you’ll be able to do everything you need at times that suit you, whether it’s 3:00 in the morning or 3:00 in the afternoon.
5. Sharpen your time management skills
In traditional learning, you are set a schedule – you are required to attend classes at specific times. But when you study online, you will have to create your own structure and routine. It is up to you to determine when and where to study.
This means that you will be putting your organizational and prioritization skills as well as your punctuality to the test in online learning. As you progress through your online courses, you will be required to develop your self-discipline and time management skills.