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Should I Take An Online Course & Will They Help Me?

3 Oct 2023

A credited qualification in your chosen field is a great way to fulfil your potential, gain new skills and understandings, and advance your career. However, in-person learning is not always feasible, especially if you have existing commitments. 

Online courses cut out time-consuming commutes and offer you more control over your schedule.

With careful planning and a level of self-discipline, distance learning is a legitimate and practical route to gaining that all-important qualification whilst being resourceful with your time. 

What is online learning?

Online learning, also called ‘e-learning’ or ‘distance learning’, is a method of study that takes place over the internet. These courses take place beyond the traditional classroom, often taking advantage of platforms like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Moodle, university websites, and even simply via email. 

Rather than travelling to campus every day, you learn from home- or anywhere else that you choose - and similarly receive feedback from tutors via the internet.

Is online education right for me?

If you’re looking to prioritise flexibility, distance learning is likely the best option. These courses are typically more succinct than traditional education and are broken down into bitesize modules. Assessments and exams are also usually completed online, taking out much of the hassle of getting there on time with everything you need.

The prospect of planning your own timetable with only you to keep yourself in check may seem daunting. However, online learning can be a time for you to really exercise and improve these skills of time management and self-discipline. 

Additionally, there is no need to be completely alone when completing an online course. Rather, there is support available each step of the way, whether that is via your learning institution or through independent organisations. There you can work together on creating a personal plan of action to guide you to success and no doubt you will finish the course a more effective learner

There are lots of variations within the umbrella of online learning, so if one aspect sounds especially appealing, or another particularly unappealing, then you can choose a pathway that best suits your wants and needs. 

What are the different types of online learning?

Understanding the differences between varying styles of online courses is key to working out if they are worth it for you. The main ones include:

Hybrid courses 

Also known as ‘blended courses’, Hybrid courses involve both in-person and online learning. They consist of some face-to-face lessons that are then compensated with following online contact. This works well for people who hope to study from home with occasional opportunities to interact in person with their classmates and teachers.

Synchronous Courses

Synchronous courses are entirely virtual lessons where students and teachers meet in an online space to discuss topics in real-time, or in ‘synch’, with each other. These mimic in-person lessons by allowing attendees to interact via text, video, or audio chat with flowing conversations. It allows quick and direct discussions whilst still studying from home. 

Asynchronous courses

Asynchronous courses do not take place in real-time. Instead, students are provided with all the learning content at the beginning of the course and left to work through it in their own time. With no scheduled class meetings, this style of study is best for those who want utmost independence and control. It is popular amongst mature students who find it fits neatly around a busy schedule. 

What are the benefits of online learning?

Efficiency

Online learning means you can cut out commuting time and have more focused study time that doesn’t collide with existing commitments.

Accessibility

Lessons can be completed anytime, anywhere. These courses are also accessible in that they usually offer lower or no grade boundaries, meaning anyone can apply. 

The lack of in-person meetings can also help ease anxiety for those who find that mental health issues can interrupt their attendance. 

Flexibility

Where usually the instructor sets the pace and schedule of the lesson, online learning cedes control to the student. You can create a study timetable designed specifically for your unique circumstances.

Financial

Online learning leaves room for part-time or even full-time work allowing you to financially support yourself through your studies. It also reflects the modern landscape of ‘work from home’, preparing you for a wide range of career routes.

What are the disadvantages of online learning?

Self Motivation

Online learning does require sustained self-motivation and it can feel like a lot of responsibility. Although this must be said of all types of learning as most higher education demands a certain amount of self-study in order to succeed.

Isolation

Despite online courses offering virtual contact and support, feeling isolated is a possibility in this line of study. It is important to have other interests and commitments that don’t necessitate long amounts of screen time and involve socialising with others. 

Remember, health and wellbeing support is available through groups where specialists can provide ongoing advice, training, and encouragement throughout your studies and beyond.

Should I put online learning on my CV?

Yes! Showing that you have completed an online course is an excellent opportunity to boast of your time-management skills, personal drive, commitment, familiarity with software, and solving common troubleshooting issues.

The ability to simply sit at a desk and keep yourself motivated is becoming increasingly valued within the workplace in a post-Covid world. Being proficient in certain digital platforms is now a necessary skill. As technology continues to intertwine with our everyday lives, proving that you can communicate and collaborate virtually shows you to be a great asset to any forward-thinking organisation. 

Find out how to write a great CV. 

How do I apply for online education?

University websites and open days are a good place to start, with institutions like The Open University being leaders in expanding accessible distance learning.