Before online learning was a thing, there was the concept of learning through correspondence which came into being almost two centuries ago. With the advent of the internet, online learning exploded into the scene right from the early 90s.
The pandemic has changed the way we learn. With almost all education taking place online, the popularity of online learning has skyrocketed. Having to adjust to this new method of learning is not so bad after all. As flexible as it is, chances are that the new normal will soon be entirely normal for everyone.
Here are a few of the pros of online learning, followed by the various kinds of online courses defining a new era in education.
The Advantages of Online Learning
One of the main advantages of online learning is that it allows you to learn almost anything from anywhere. You can learn whatever you want without worrying about traveling or relocating to pursue your dream course.
Given the rising popularity of virtual education, leading online learning platforms like Learning Cloud have launched interesting new course such as medical transcription courses. With healthcare being the most important aspect during this time, it is vital to transcribe medical reports. This course prepares you for a bright future as a medical transcriptionist.
Another benefit of online learning is that it is entirely flexible and unorthodox compared to traditional learning methods. The primary focus of online learning is the experience of the user. So, you get a visual learning experience and one that is flexible and convenient with regards to your time and schedule. You no longer need to worry about family commitments or work pressure while you pursue your online education.
One of the most attractive benefits of online learning is the affordability of the courses. A majority of the courses cost nothing. There is no need to stress yourself by taking a hefty student loan or worrying about commuting.
Types of Online Courses
1- Webinars
In short, webinars are nothing but online seminars. They are delivered online. They can be hosted from single or multiple locations by an individual or multiple moderators. Webinars started to gain popularity in the 90s, and ever since then, educators have been used by educators to deliver their content worldwide.
Webinars are not online courses but are learning opportunities online. One massive advantage of webinars is that it can be used to host hundreds, if not thousands, of participants simultaneously. Also, it is the closest thing to an in-house or in-person learning experience.
2- Asynchronous Courses
These courses are self-paced, so you can take your time and complete them at your pace within the allotted time given for course completion. These courses are pre-recorded and are different from live webinars, and are not presented to live audiences. However, a webinar can be converted to an asynchronous course.
3- Synchronous Courses
In this style of online learning, the facilitator or instructor shares the same platform as the students in real-time. It contains tests and is a very interactive form of learning. These courses not only provide an enhanced user experience but also maintain a social setting through the use of technology. These courses are often blended with asynchronous courses and are widely used for vocational training courses.
Over the past 12 months, online learning has evolved by leaps and bounds and almost all the reputed universities and educational organisations are relying on e-learning platforms. The barrier to adoption of online education has eased dramatically and a majority are embracing it as a new way of learning.
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