Despite the ever-increasing popularity of online courses, people still question if it is ok to take them. Misconceptions surrounding their quality remain, in spite of the many students who use them to access higher education and employment.
Not only is it ok to take online courses, it’s invaluable! Choosing to study online provides far more benefits than on-site education.
Online courses don’t just offer a more flexible way to learn, they help you develop skills a classroom wouldn’t provide. People considering online learning at times worry they’ll be viewed differently from – or even, substandard to – traditionally taught students.
The reality is taking online courses demonstrates your independence, ambition and commitment to education. Not to mention the time management, self-motivation and organisation skills it takes to successfully learn independently.
So, studying online can actually positively differentiate you from the rest.
Online courses have opened the option of further education to everyone. People with jobs, families or those without transport to access a campus, previously couldn’t pursue their learning goals. Now, so long as they have an internet connection and a computer, they’re good to go.
Find out more about what you can expect when you take an online course.
What to Expect When Studying Online Courses
There are so many positives to studying online. But some of the benefits and facts about distance learning are lesser known. Take a look at some of the many advantages below:
There Will Be More Choice
Traditional education requires teachers and physical premises to run courses. Not to mention books, equipment and desks etc. These are all expenses that must be recouped in course profit.
The more a course costs to run, the higher number of students need to enrol to make it worthwhile. This results in fewer courses being offered since the less popular ones won’t cover the overheads.
Courses provided online need far fewer resources to run, reducing the outlay for online course providers. This means they are more inclined to provide a diverse range of subjects. From Tarot Cards to Life Skills Coaching, there is an online course for every interest.
You’ll Get the Same Qualification
Regulated qualifications received from distance learning providers are indistinguishable from those provided on campus. If you’re taking an online A Level, for instance, it will be the same as the one studied in college.
Accreditation standards and processes are in place to make sure online students receive the same rigorous level of education. This means they are also equally recognised by universities and employers as well.
You Decide When and How You Learn
A lot of people choose online learning because it provides the most flexibility and freedom. Students with busy lifestyles can learn around their existing commitments, so they don’t have to sacrifice anything to study.
Having the option to learn from the comfort of home also removes the anxiety often associated with the classroom. Rather than comparing your progress to others and worrying you’re falling behind, you just focus on yourself.
You learn in the way that suits you best. Setting your own pace and organising deadlines for work around your schedule. Being so flexible often means students complete courses much quicker than the timeframe allowed.
Some Online Courses Incorporate Hands-on Training
While many courses can be learned solely online, distance learning still recognises the need for practical training. Courses teaching physical skills can offer training or incorporate placements to make sure students are industry ready when they qualify.
For example, this Level 3 Foot Health Care Practitioner Diploma provides one week practical training in a state-of-the-art clinic. This Beauty Therapy Techniques Level 3 Diplomahostspractical sessions in dedicated salons. And this Level 4 Certificate in Education and Training requires completion of a placement to pass.
Things to Note
There are many benefits to taking an online course. However, there are a few things to consider when contemplating online education, choosing your online course and course provider.
Make Sure the Course Provider is Accredited
If you’re looking to gain a recognised qualification, you need to make sure the course provider is regulated and accredited.
Unfortunately, there are scam course providers out there whose qualifications aren’t worth the paper they’re written on. Do some research to make sure the course provider you choose has the right credentials.
To become accredited, they must go through an evaluation and accreditation process. Performed by a reputable third-party accrediting agency who decides whether they have met established education standards.
Ofqual (the Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation) regulates all awarding organisations whether they are online or offline. Protecting students by making sure courses are fair in terms of materials provided, coursework and exams undertaken.
Acceptance of Certain Courses
This isn’t really an online course issue, rather it’s a general point to be aware of. There are some courses offered both on and offline which are designed to provide an alternative to traditional qualifications.
Generally, these are Functional Skills courses and Access to Higher Education Diplomas.
Functional Skills qualifications are designed to demonstrate your ability and competence in numeracy and literacy. They are considered equivalent to a GCSE C (4) or above and are quicker to obtain than full GCSEs.
Access to Higher Education Diplomas are designed to allow anyone who lacks the qualifications to study at degree level. They are specifically aimed at preparing you for higher education and employment and provide an equivalent qualification to A Levels.
Both are extremely popular choices that many students returning to education use to meet entry requirements or gain useful skills. While most institutions accept them, some do not. Therefore, it is always advised that you check this first before enrolling on either course.
You’ll Need to Be Self-Disciplined to Succeed
Taking online courses gives you more freedom and flexibility to learn around your lifestyle. While this is a great benefit, it can be a downfall if you’re not careful.
Online courses generally run over two years. Giving you a great amount of time to space things out if you’re organised. However, it can also make it easier to put things off if you think you have plenty of time.
Leaving things until the last minute can see you rushing and doing a poor job on assignments. It’ll also give you less time to revise for any necessary exams and can affect your overall grade.
If you can be disciplined, set your own goals and deadlines and stick to them, you’ll do fine. This style of learning is great for those who are good at managing their time and motivating themselves.
Online courses are an excellent option for anyone looking to reap the rewards of home education. If you’re thinking of taking an online course but need more tips to structure your studies, read our blog.
Otherwise, check out the many online courses you can study with Stonebridge Associated Colleges. As a leading UK distance learning provider, they have lots of courses on offer to help you reach your goals.
Click below to view them in more detail.
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