Efficiency is defined by successfully producing the desired or intended results.
It could be that you’re studying an Access to Higher Education Diploma to get into university. Or learning accounting to improve your skillset in running your own business.
Whatever your motivation to study is, the outcome you are looking to achieve is the same. Effective learning that makes a meaningful and lasting difference to your life.
With hundreds of online courses readily available to you there is bound to be one that suits your needs.
However, finding a course that works for you is easy but finding the time to attend classes can be a challenge. Modern life places so many demands on us that an evening class is a luxury few of us feel we can afford.
It could be that you’re working full-time and are unable to attend classes. Or have children and can’t get away for your evening course.
Usually, the next thought for those of us with other commitments would be to try online learning.
Online courses give you the flexibility that traditional institutions lack. This allows a lot more of us to get back into education and realise our ambitions.
But do online courses garner the same results as their physical counterpart?
Success Rates
With many of us short on time, it’s essential we make the right decision when choosing our course of study.
Online courses are a great alternative to bricks and mortar institutes. The flexibility of the course allows you to integrate it seamlessly within your current schedule.
Whether that be working around your full-time job or in between school runs. Distance education provides a solution.
But are there any more reasons as to why one should choose online learning?
In short – yes. But let’s break this down further.
According to the Speak Up Research Investigation 45% of elementary school students expressed their favourite way to learn was through digital games and online videos.
It’s no surprise that interactive and multifaceted content helps engage children with their learning. The visual and verbal representation helps them gain a deeper understanding of the subject matter.
This higher rate of engagement throughout lessons improves the students’ retention of knowledge.
This holds true for adults too.
And we can see this reflected in the increase of students which have opted to take their higher education studies online.
In 2008 only 6.1% of graduate students were furthering their education on completely online courses. Since 2016 that statistic has gone up to 27.3%.
This huge increase indicates how beneficial distance education can be.
Furthermore in 2018, Learner House conducted a study in which 85% of students felt that their online experience was the same or better than their traditional classes.
This is a testament to the ability students have to study at a pace, and place, that suits their needs. And still achieve the desired results.
For example, in the UK, the University of Essex online degree’s scored 91% in student satisfaction in the National Student Survey. Placing the institution 4th overall amongst all higher education providers.
These statistics showcase the higher retention rates and student satisfaction in online learning.
And in turn is the reason why the popularity of distance education is ever-increasing.
Learning Process for Online Courses
Understanding how you learn will help you make an informed decision on whether this method is for you.
In bricks and mortar colleges you will be guided by a teacher through modules over the academic year.
If you have a bad teacher this can make it harder for you to learn to the best of your ability. Not to mention if you miss a lecture it won’t be as easy for you to catch up on what you’ve missed.
Traditional colleges follow a strict timetable that leave little to no room to retrace your steps.
Whereas, with an online course, you’d be in control of your own studying.
But just like in some traditional institutes you will be assessed regularly.
As research suggests that frequent assessments can aid the learning process and boost retention.
This also helps you keep track of whether you’re on target for your desired grade.
Which is a much better approach than just one final exam at the end of term that may or may not go as planned.
The difference being studying online gives you the freedom to learn at your own pace. And revise material as often as you’d like.
Alternatively, if you were well versed in a certain area of study you could move through it faster. Not having to stay at the same pace as the rest of your classmates.
It’s all up to you.
Staying on Track with your Online Courses
Although, for some of us that can be a daunting prospect. As most of us are accustomed to teacher lead classes to guide us through our education.
But don’t let switching to a more independent approach put you off. You won’t be completely left to your own devices.
A personal tutor will be there to offer support. They will be an expert in the field of study and be able to answer any question you may have about that subject.
If you are worried about your ability to stay focused on your studies, then make sure you prepare accordingly.
We find that the most successful learners plan their study sessions in advance. Specifically putting time aside so that they know when it’s time to put in the work.
It can also help to divide your learning into more manageable chunks so that it is less overwhelming.
Furthermore, it’s important to keep your workstation away from your phone or a tv. They’re too distracting.
According to the University of California Irvine study it takes an average of 23 minutes to get back on task after being distracted. So, if you’re studying for an hour and take a 5-minute phone break the next half an hour won’t be as effective.
It is best to move away from your work area and stretch your legs in breaks. Go into the garden if you can or a walk around the block.
This keeps you focused but still gives your mind a rest from learning.
Making these subtle changes can make a big difference in your learning and help you get the best out of your studying.
So if you stay focused and put in the work, online learning can make for a very effective way to study.
Start your studies today
Stonebridge Associated Colleges is a one of the UK’s leading online learning providers. With a variety of courses on offer there is almost something for everyone.
Whatever you’re looking for, online learning could be for you.
Our courses are designed by experts in that field and regularly updated to guarantee you get the most up to date knowledge.
Why not get in touch today by contacting a member of our sales team or having a look at our courses below.
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