The benefits of online learning
Online learning has been around for a while but, during this uncertain period of isolation, it might be your first time considering how you could benefit from a virtual learning option. As many of us face uncertainty in the future of our careers, there’s never been a better time to learn new skills that could help provide income-stability – or simply offer an equally stimulating alternative to watching TV! Whatever your reason for looking into online learning might be, we’re here to show you how it can benefit you during these uncertain times.
Building a professional network
While the country self-isolates, there are no in-person networking events or opportunities to connect with other professionals face-to-face. So, while you put away those business cards for the future, learning online will give you the opportunity to meet other like-minded professionals and continue to expand your network in the present. Whether via forums, discussion groups or online calls, you won’t feel isolated while studying from home. It’s an easy way to stay in touch and build professional relationships that can continue to grow when isolation ends.
Learning at your own pace
One of the known negatives of studying in a classroom is being forced to learn at a set time and schedule. Learning online allows you to log on and study when, where and how you want, so you don’t have to worry about how you’ll get to a morning lecture or when your next module starts. Long term, this means that when you return to your normal life you can continue learning without disrupting your busy schedule.
No limits to what you can study
You might already know what skills will help you progress in your career or further improve your future prospects and, by choosing to study online, there are fewer limitations to study these topics. With traditional study, you might be limited to specialist institutions in specific locations or what your local universities have to offer during a given academic year. The online learning space lets you study courses and access other resources, that may have otherwise been out of reach or unavailable, at any given time. You can choose to focus on one course or even tackle multiple online resources to expand your skillset in your own, tailored way.
No need to take a career break
In a traditional on-campus setting, taking a course to learn new skills means you might have to temporarily give up your career or go part-time in order to accommodate very rigid schedules. When you learn online, you can develop your skills, knowledge and employability without taking time away from your professional or personal commitments. Many of us can’t simply quit working to study, so online learning allows you to remain financially stable while you upskill. This is why so many busy professionals choose to study online. If you’re working from home, you can still pick up new skills without worrying about taking attention away from your career, family or other lifestyle commitments.
In short, learning online has many benefits and these are just some of the key reasons how it can provide you with a flexible path to develop new skills. Distance learning can teach you something new that you have always wanted to know more about. It can help you gain the confidence to go after a promotion, or help you develop new skills while meeting with professionals to expand your network.