In previous years, conventional schooling had restricted
students to a brick and mortar setup. Hence this traditional educational format
was limited to a select demographic of society particularly children of
schooling age. However, as Australians embrace the use of new technologies in
their everyday lives, the educational landscape down under has also been reinvented.
In only the last decade, the frequency of enrollment in distance
education courses has increased. At the same time, it has allowed different
sectors of society to pursue further studies without hesitation. The format
primarily benefits people seeking higher education or those required to rake in
continuing education units for professional development.
Demographics of students for education online courses
Online learning has widened the demographics of students who
are able to study. Aside from college students, people in the workforce,
homemakers, and even retirees can look forward to earning a degree online.
Nowadays, companies require their employees to keep abreast
with the latest technology and trends in their particular area of
specialization. Rather than enroll at the local university, professionals have
the option and convenience to sign up for a degree program provided by reputable distance education
providers.
Stay-at-home moms can also take up short courses to enhance
their hobbies or to learn something new. Retirees and silvers who set aside
their lifelong passions in order to earn a living or raise a family can partake
of the latest technology as well.
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| Online Education in Australia: Stockvault |
Benefits of online courses in Australia
Although there continues to be some reluctance among
potential enrollees, the following list outlines the advantages brought on by distance
education:
· 1)
Online learning is a time saver. Online courses offer fixed number of hours
that a student can work around his or her daily or weekly schedule. In contrast to taking up a class at campus, students
need not waste time traveling from point A to point B just to get to class on
time.
· 2)
It limits student’s expenses to the essentials. Campus life and traveling to and from the
university grounds can be expensive. Learning online limits incidentals as
references are also part of the package.
· 3)
Earning a diploma is within reach. Previously,
the only way to earn a diploma was through attendance at a brick and mortar
institution. Reputable distance education providers offer diploma and
certificate courses that are accredited and recognized by industries.
· 4)
Online learning offers flexibility and
accessibility. Students who work as fulltime employees or mothers who have idle
time while their kids are at school can easily fit an online class into their
busy schedule. Unlike regular classes, there is no set time to log in for
students. Hence, a mother can sign in after dropping her kids off at school or
an employee can check lessons during lunch break at work.
· 5)
Distance learning fosters independence and
accountability. In traditional classrooms, teachers typically prod students to
study and complete assigned tasks. In contrast, there is less interaction in an
online classroom setting. However, this does not mean that students can afford
to drag their heels. A student must be responsible for his or her own development
as an assigned tutor for each course offering monitors output based on the
lessons.
· 6)
It encourages the use of technology. Students
are able to expand their technical knowledge, as they are able to use internet
resources in connection with their studies. This practice also enhances their
use of software programs that make learning exciting.
· 7)
Online learning facilitates the practical
application of knowledge. As a student learns, he or she is able to put into
practice what they have learned in class immediately.
Online learning is a worthwhile and time-effective activity that can benefit any individual looking to gain more knowledge and improve oneself. An individual may sign up for an online course and access their lessons anywhere they may be and at any time, provided they have access to the Internet.
Moreover, unlike earlier online learning programs, today’s distance education providers offer email interaction with the competent tutors assigned to each course offering. The communication can help enhance the learning experience by making it possible for students to ask questions related to the lessons and expect a reply within a twenty-four period.
By: May Ann
