Top students—and you may be one of them—seem to always be looking for ways to expand their knowledge through new, more enriching learning experiences. In the past, this meant asking for help and attention from your teachers. But today, online learning and distance learning are opening up new horizons in education.
In this article, we’ll review the growing list of online learning options available today: you can take entire online courses or just get help on specific topics. [We’ll briefly touch on the benefits of online learning, including more personalized learning paths and potential savings on travel and tuition costs.]
Online education offers great flexibility, with a wealth of educational resources available from a laptop, desktop or smartphone. Let’s take a look at what’s available.
Online Learning Overview
Online learning is an educational model that uses digital technology and the internet to deliver instruction. It is based on the principle of “anywhere, anytime” learning, providing you with a flexible, self-paced, and often interactive educational experience.
There are many types of online courses that fit your academic interests and career goals. You can explore massive open online courses (MOOCs) on platforms like edX and Coursera, or enroll in a full degree program at an online institution like the University of Phoenix or Western Governors University. If you want to gain specific skills through shorter, certificate-type programs, check out websites like Udemy or LinkedIn Learning. You may even be able to supplement or replace courses in your existing education program with alternative credit providers like StraighterLine or Sophia, saving you time and money.
As for costs, they vary widely depending on the type of course and provider. Some MOOCs are free, but you may have to pay to earn the optional certification. In contrast, full online education programs can cost as much as traditional in-person degrees. [Advocates of online education say that even if tuition is comparable, online education can save you money in other areas, such as travel and housing.]
The benefits of online learning are considerable. The flexibility of distance learning makes it a great option for students who need to balance their studies with other commitments. It also opens the door to a wide range of courses and programs that may not be available locally. In addition, online learning is known to foster self-motivation and independent learning, skills that are highly valued in the modern workplace.
However, online learning is not without its challenges. It requires good self-discipline and effective time management skills to keep up with courses without the structured schedule of the classroom. Online learners also need reliable access to the internet and sufficient digital literacy to navigate learning platforms. Finally, some students may miss the social interactions that occur when they join other learners in a classroom.
Distance Learning Options
Distance learning options are many and varied, but in this article we will focus on the following categories: accredited online schools, online programs at traditional schools, MOOCs, and alternative credit providers.
Accredited online schools offer online degree programs and are recognized by relevant accrediting bodies, just like traditional schools, but the entire program can be completed online from a single institution. Schools like Southern New Hampshire University and Capella University offer a wide range of programs from business and management to healthcare and information technology (although they may not offer as broad a range as a traditional institution). These schools have robust online platforms specifically designed to facilitate effective distance learning, with all resources in digital format.
There are also online programs at traditional schools. These courses and programs are offered by long-established institutions but are delivered online, so you can enroll from anywhere. Examples include programs offered by schools like the University of Florida and Penn State World Campus, which combine the flexibility of online study with the reputation of reputable universities. Note that these programs may not offer all of their school’s courses online, and there may be prerequisites for enrolling in specific programs.
Massive open online courses (MOOCs) are a popular new option. These courses and programs are less selective and have fewer barriers to entry, such as simpler admissions processes or more frequent program start dates. Ivy League schools) through platforms such as Coursera, edX, and Khan Academy. Topics range from the humanities to STEM, and many MOOCs offer certification upon completion (sometimes for a fee). MOOCs may offer fewer support resources than online and traditional programs, making them more suitable for students who can self-manage their academic progress without much interaction with instructors and others.
Not to be overlooked are online alternative course providers, one of the latest innovations in higher education. These providers offer course catalogs specifically designed to help students meet admission requirements for traditional programs or reduce the total cost of their degree by replacing courses in their traditional or online program with less expensive, transferable options.
Choosing an Online Education Program
Choosing an online education program requires careful consideration and research to find the option that best fits your needs and learning style. Here are some key factors to consider:
