So you’ve decided to invest some of your precious time into growing your skills and furthering your career (or having a career change completely)…that’s great!
If you’re working, have a family or a generally busy lifestyle, you might be considering online learning as a way of getting the skills and certifications you need to break into your new career. You might wonder whether studying online is the right decision for you…is it really worth it?
Here are the pros and cons of online learning to help you decide!
Pros:
No Travel – There is no commuting/travel time to a college or academy, which means you’ll save money…win!
Location - The world is your oyster - there are no geographic limitations with studying online, so you’ll be able to find the perfect course for your needs.
Flexibility – If you have a family or just a busy life (and who doesn’t?!), it can be difficult to fit traditional classroom time in. Online leaning gives you the ability to learn at your own pace with access to the course material 24/7, so if you fancy cracking on with your studies at 1am, you can!
Options – Many online courses offer you the ability to structure the course exactly to your career goals, you can often customise your course to include CPDs that help specialise your knowledge, and get you noticed by employers!
Support – Just because you’re online doesn’t mean you won’t be supported on your course. Many providers have specialist online tutors, so whenever you have a query, they’ll be there to help.
Fast - Because there is so much independent work in an online program, you set the pace, meaning you can complete the course as quickly or as slowly as you want.
Earning – One of the main draws for online learning is that you can keep working. Working while studying means there no loss of earnings, so you won’t need to limit your income to attend a course in a physical classroom.
Alone time - Shy? Online learning is perfect for introverts and those who prefer to be extra thorough in their learning. If you’re the type of person who studies best on their own, online learning is the perfect option for you!
Coffee! – Fancy hitting your favourite coffee shop to study? No worries! Get your fix of caffeine fuel and mix up your learning environment whenever the mood takes you. Flat white anyone?
Cons:
Limited social interaction – if you prefer to bounce ideas off other students, need a chat with someone to keep you plugging through your day or simply find you concentrate better with a bit of background chatter, you may find it challenging studying alone. Get around this by having the radio on in the background or keeping a pet with you for a bit of studying companionship!
Internet access – so you don’t have internet access at home, but your local café, library or your friend’s house probably has a decent enough internet connection so you can get studying.
Motivation – Online programs require you to take charge of your education. No one will force you sign into the online portal, complete assignments and upload them on time. It’s up to you to set aside study time and stick to it. Don’t worry though, your tutor will check on your progress and be your own personal motivator if it looks like you’re struggling.
If you do decide to try online education, plan for success. Be sure to get in touch with your instructor at the very beginning of the course and stay connected. This will help you stay motivated and ensure you remain on-track with your coursework.
Learning Styles - Today’s online courses are often geared towards a variety of learners. Whether you like to listen to lectures or watch videos, you can definitely find an online resource to suit you. On the other hand, if you’re a hands-on learner who benefits most from face-to-face contact with instructors and classmates, you may want need to look harder for courses that have greater one on one interaction so you get the most out of your learning.
Technological problems – As great as technology is, it also has us at its mercy. If you’ve lost internet connection you may find a lull in your productivity…still, it serves as a good time to put the kettle on!
The increasing popularity and availability of online courses has made it possible for more people to get the education, skills and knowledge they need to start a new job.
Often the biggest dilemma is finding a training school that actually offers courses with recognised certifications and diplomas that an employer looks for. Our courses offer industry recognised qualifications and certifications, along with access to leading companies and employers allowing you to land an interview almost immediately!
Wondering what online courses we offer here at The Training Room?
find out here