Wednesday, September 2, 2009

Online Learning Rocks!

I came across this recent NYT article and thought you might enjoy it, too. Not surprisingly - at least not to me! -- the study finds that in a comparison of studies over the past 12 years, they can now say with some degree of qualitative certainty that: "On average, students in online learning conditions performed better than those receiving face-to-face instruction".

While the study related to the academic sector, and not specifically to corporate settings, it's safe to say that these students represent the future corporate learners. These learners will soon expect quality online learning as a key method of gaining the knowledge to perform and excel in their jobs. We predict that as the title of Corporate Trainer evolves into Knowledge Facilitators -- who will support the transfer of knowledge through multiple delivery modes -- a blended learning approach will also emerge.

A combination of classroom or face-to-face community interaction and networking, along with video/online training to facilitate consistently available, virtually monitored and cost-effective training will evolve that both pleases all constituents and accommodates all types of learners. It would be the best of both worlds.

Beyond the initial findings, the article, in summary, says:

•Online education can be better tailored to individual students than classroom training
•Students find online training "more engaging and useful"
•Students can "learn by doing" more effectively with online training than in a classroom setting
•Online training will evolve much more rapidly in the next few years, because of social networking
•Eventually, online learning will create communities of learners, who will help each other, by teaching each other, online as well as in the classroom

This clearly shows the benefits of online learning. If you haven't already done so, check out the benefits of online learning.

Wednesday, August 19, 2009

Finish That Degree...





Finishing your college degree may seem out of reach, but it really isn't. Today, there are more options that ever for completing your degree or getting schooled in a different field. Enter online learning. Did you know that even traditional institutions offer online learning options?

Whether you want to start small or go all out, online learning provides the flexibility you need to succeed. The benefits of online education are many:

1. Flexible schedule
2. Many course and program options
3. Working from the comfort of your own home

For individuals who are still working or have commitments during the day, online learning gives you a good deal of flexibility. Assignments are usually due at the end of a day without and specific guidelines on when you can work on them. This allows you to schedule your own time based on your personal schedule.

Online programs also offer a variety of courses. Work with a counselor at the institution (online or off) that you're considering to find the fastest way towards that degree. You may also qualify for credit by examination of be given credits for previous experience.

The best part about learning online is that you don't have to drive or take public transportation. As long as you have an internet enabled computer you're good to go. And if you don't have one, simply visit your closest library to complete and submit your assignments.

If you want to finish that degree, consider the online learning option.

Wednesday, August 12, 2009

Going To School.. Online Or Off?

Have you been thinking about going back to school? Perhaps you've been impacted by the economy or are considering learning some new skills. Either way you have more options than ever to get the degree you want. Enter "online education".

Just a few short years ago online education was seen as being less valuable that classroom led courses. But the reality is that learning online is just as challenging. This is recognized by both traditional institutions - now offering online learning programs, and colleges like University of Phoenix who provide the majority of their programs online.

The great part about online learning is that your learning fits your schedule. It is must more flexible than traditional programs and often times allows you to continue working. If you're unemployed and want to go to school full time, you can also benefit from online learning courses. Many schools offer full-time and part-time programs. Simply find the program that meets your needs.

Going to school online is a great option for anyone interested in completing a degree or going to school to learn a new skill. Start by researching your options online and then consider calling a handful of schools to answer more specific questions. The information you get is invaluable and can help you make all of the right decisions.

Wednesday, August 5, 2009

Going To School Online? Now Is The Time

If you are thinking about going back to school, now is the time to consider online learning. Although many people think that online learning programs are easier than traditional programs, the fact is they are equally challenging. In fact, many online programs are more difficult than classroom courses.

However, online learning offers some benefits that other types of programs do not - flexibility. If you want to succeed online you must be prepared for a different type of learning. Many people are willing to take on this challenge in exchange for the flexibility that only learning provides. Learn in the evenings, weekends, or at select times.

Online programs have due dates, assignments, and many of the other requirements of traditional programs but you can complete them from the comfort of your own home. This added flexibility is paramount for those who are working or have a need to stay close to home (childcare, etc.).

Before starting any online program, learn about program requirements and the type of schedule you will need to keep. By doing so you can find a program that meets your needs and your existing schedule. Traditional programs do not offer this type of flexibility.

Give yourself adequate to investigate all of your online learning options as this is not a one size fits all decision. Do online research and speak to school or program representatives. Your online learning needs to fit your lifestyle and more often than not, you can find a learning solution that does.