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Why Online Learning is an Effective Way to Study
Online learning - Woman taking Online IT courses - Mancosa

The world is constantly changing and evolving. Regardless of the industry, new technologies and processes are being developed every year. This is why it’s vital for business professionals to continuously upskill and advance their capabilities. MANCOSA skillME offers a range of short online learning programmes that’ll help enhance your skills to remain competitive.

This article will explain what online learning is, discuss whether it’s as effective as traditional learning, and go into detail about its multiple benefits so you can decide if you want to take a short online course.

Is online learning as effective as classroom learning?

Online learning has become increasingly popular in recent years due to the Covid pandemic. Despite the pandemic being over and some companies and universities returning to work and study as we know it, many others have adopted e-learning full-time.

It has become a new norm, with the e-learning market expected to exceed $375 billion (over R6 trillion) by 2026. So, this begs the question: Is online learning the future of higher education?

However, there have been some objections towards the effectiveness of online learning. And while online studying isn’t for everyone since it requires high levels of discipline, it’s considered just as effective as classroom or campus-based physical education.

Why?

Because online learning still offers the same learning materials, courseware, and passing requirements as classroom physical learning. It also has many other benefits (which we’ll get into later).

Bottom line: Online learning is just as effective as classroom physical education for students with the self-discipline to organise their flexible schedules.

How online learning works

For the most part, online learning works the same way as classroom physical education — the main difference being how it’s taught.

Instead of having to attend physical classroom settings, students are given the same course material via an online learning platform using computer software over the internet.

Depending on the course, instructors will communicate with them and their fellow students using online videos. These videos can either be:

  • Live: Where the instructor communicates with them in real-time. During these video sessions, students can often communicate with the instructor and fellow students through discussion boards or video threads.
  • On-demand: Where the video of the instructor communicating is pre-recorded, and students can watch the lesson when they’re ready.

Students are usually encouraged to communicate with the instructor via email or instant messaging. Furthermore, online classes typically have a self-paced portion where students can complete their coursework on time — as long as they meet due dates.

As such, online learning is perfect for individuals who are:

●      Self-disciplined

●      Independent

●      Tech-savvy

●      Motivated and driven

Benefits of online learning

Here’s a list of some of the main benefits of taking an online course as opposed to studying in a physical environment.

1. Saves time and costs

While the costs of online programmes differ, studying online is significantly more affordable than classroom physical education. And, since there are many online courses available, you’ll be able to choose one that doesn’t only suit your professional needs but your price range too.

On top of the course itself being less expensive, you’ll also be able to save on other costs. These include costs such as housing, commuting, and more.

2. Gives you more flexibility

Taking a course online means you’ll have more freedom to work around your learning schedule. This means that even while you’re studying, you can engage in other rewarding activities.

You’ll be able to care for your family and work a full-time job while earning your certification or degree. Ultimately, you’ll achieve an optimal school-life balance.

3. Offers less distractions

If you love working independently, online learning is the ideal option. This is because it allows you to work remotely with far fewer distractions.

Your attention won’t be diverted by your fellow students, casual conversations, or any distractions that could prevent you from finalising your assignments quickly. As a result of fewer distractions, your level of productivity will increase.

4. Builds your transferable skills

The world is becoming more digital every year. As a result, business processes are shifting towards digital platforms. This is excellent news for you since your online learning experience will equip you with many technical and transferable skills you can use in a work setting.

You’ll learn how video conferencing works, how to use specific software (that could be useful in business), and much more. These skills would definitely benefit your current (or future) employer.

You’ll also learn other essential transferable skills, such as communication, collaboration, critical thinking, time management, and much more.

5. Offers career advancement opportunities

Like courses taken in a traditional setting, online courses can also provide excellent career advancement opportunities.

Those studying while working will be able to incorporate the skills, knowledge, and expertise they learn into their work — resulting in better deliverables. As a result, employers will be more likely to give them promotions.

Also, for those who aren’t working while studying, online courses can explain any gaps in a resume, which makes them more attractive to employers.

Types of online learning courses and programmes

There are many different types of online teaching courses in various industries that you can take. These include, but aren’t limited to:

Online business courses

Multiple business courses can help you improve your skills and knowledge to gain better positions. These range from courses such as:

●      Service Excellence helps level up your customer service skills to create brand loyalty.

●      Conflict Management teaches you to resolve disruptions and conflicts that your team members or subordinates may be experiencing. 

●      Finance for Non-Finance Managers teaches you financial fundamentals so you can make sound financial decisions even if you aren’t a Finance Manager.  

Online IT courses

Short online IT courses can really help you advance your technology skills so you can offer additional support and services. Here are some IT courses you can consider:

●      Cybersecurity: Managing Risk in the Information Age is an excellent course that teaches you about cybersecurity to set your company up for success.

●      Intro to Robotics and Programming teaches you how to design, build, and programme your own working robot.

Online healthcare courses

The healthcare industry can be an extremely tricky yet highly rewarding industry to work in. Taking courses to improve your skills can be a great way to stay relevant. Here are a few healthcare courses you can consider.

●      Psychiatric Patient Care teaches you how to deal with people who have serious mental illnesses to promote effective recovery. 

●      Infection Control in Healthcare Facilities gives you a robust understanding of how to develop standard infection prevention measures.

Find a course online: online learning courses from MANCOSA skillME

If you’re ready to take a course online n online course to help improve your skills and knowledge in your industry so you can offer better services and gain promotions, we’ve got you covered! Look at MANCOSA skillME’s wide range of online short learning programmes covering the business, IT, and healthcare industries.

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