For students, professionals, and parents, online learning presents a unique opportunity to gain new skills and experience in an environment that fits a busy lifestyle. From virtual internships to certifications and courses, there are endless reasons why online learning is good for career development and academic progress.
If you’re exploring virtual internships or classes for the first time, you may be asking, “Is online learning as good as face-to-face learning?” Worry not. Many of the world’s most renowned companies and universities utilize online learning for their employees, customers, and students.
What is online learning?
At its most basic, online learning is learning opportunities you can find on the internet. It's also known as "distance learning" or distance education" and is used for those who are learning away from their instructors, professors, and students (i.e., not in the classroom.) This means you can learn and study from anywhere as long as you have an internet connection!
Here are six reasons why online learning is good for students and professionals in every field:
1. Online education is flexible and accessible to everyone
In an online internship or course, you’re in charge of your schedule. The flexibility of remote learning means every individual can move at their own pace in a time frame that best suits their needs. Remote internships are perfect for busy professionals and students to get hands-on professional experience usually reserved for brick-and-mortar placements. The high level of availability of part-time placements and studies is another reason why online learning is great for those who need a bit more flexibility.
2. Remote learning is frequently more affordable than traditional options
Cost is one of the biggest barriers to education and professional development. Online learning, whether through certifications, classes for credit, or internships, is often a more cost-effective option. Additionally, you can complete any online course or internship from your home without the added cost of commuting or traveling.
3. Online courses and internships are customizable for your interests and skills
Another reason online learning is great for professionals and students alike is that it can cater to your exact needs. Without the limitations of geography, time, and finances, the opportunities are truly endless. Find an internship in your niche area of interest, or a course focusing on a very specific skill. No matter your situation, the world of online learning has something for you.
4. Virtual education makes it possible to learn from global experts without traveling
Remote internships place interns with companies from all around the world, allowing them to gain global experience without the cost of travel. World-renowned professors from top universities teach online courses, offering their expertise in the comfort of your living room.
5. Online learning options are extremely diverse, and there’s something for everyone
No matter which skill you want to learn or what field you need experience in, online learning can make it happen. Top companies now offer online development options for their employees, and top universities offer certain classes online, even for full-time and in-person students. The options available to you as an online learner are truly endless, from single-day intensive live classes to pre-recorded seminars, long-term project assignments, and more.
6. Online learning is at the forefront of technology and innovation
Remote learning is a multi-billion dollar industry, projected to grow in leaps and bounds over the next few years. From live classes to virtual and augmented reality, virtual learning options tend to be much more technologically advanced than traditional versions. If you’re still wondering why remote learning is good for you, look no further than the valuable technical skills you’re bound to develop that are so needed in the workforce.
Is online learning effective?
Yes! As long as you stay motivated and treat your online learning with as much weight as in-person learning, then you'll come away with some valuable new knowledge and enviable skills to make you a better employee in your field.
