7 Advantages of Online Learning
Higher education is changing before our very eyes, and “nontraditional” is becoming the new traditional even in grad school. Online learning options were once a novelty, but are now quickly becoming the norm. What are the biggest benefits to studying online?
1. Freedom to learn anywhere and at anytime
The main benefit of online study is the total freedom that it brings. Ready to see the world but still want to keep your studies going? Go for it. Need to study at night after work? You can do that when you’re part of an online program.
2. Cost savings
Wear and tear on your car. Room and board. Filling up with gas. Grabbing lunch on the way back from class. Save yourself the added hassle of traveling to campus and reduce your expenses all by simply studying online while in the comfort of your own home.
3. Grow at your own pace
Many online programs are self-paced, so when “life happens,” you can take the time you need and jump back in when you’re ready. And you’ll be building discipline, because it’s up to you to get things done. Professors know that you have the rest of your life to manage, so they trust you to get your work finished at your own pace.
4. A different kind of classroom
We all know that one student---the one who dominates the discussion so you can’t seem to get a word in edgewise. With an online forum, you’ll find a better opportunity to have productive discussions since everyone has an equal voice, and that student who is waiting to formulate his thoughts before writing can share insights you might not hear otherwise.
5. Career and class can coexist
You don’t have to stop your career growth while advancing your education. Only have time to work on your class two nights a week? No problem. With online learning, you don’t have to hit “pause” on your career as your education and career can compliment each other.
6. Sharpen your online communication skills
Knowing how to communicate online is essential in today’s electronic world. Good thing you’ll be collaborating with your teachers and classmates online, giving you a head start in the sometimes-tricky world of online communication. If you learn how to craft a reasonable, clear response in an online forum, you’ll be miles ahead of the average Internet citizen.
7. Learn self-motivation
When it’s up to you to get your work done and stay on schedule, you’ll strengthen those muscles of drive and determination. Self motivation and determination are vital skills that will carry over into the rest of your life and your career.