In the following article Global Training News will explain the process of online courses.
As internet continues to gain increasing significance in our daily lives, online courses now have a newfound standing. Their popularity seems to be rising day by day, mainly due to easy accessibility and enhanced flexibility.
So, what exactly are online courses and how do these differ from conventional modes of studying and education? Essentially, online courses are designed around a similar curriculum as that of any course taught at a college or university, in a classroom, for a particular subject. Also, these lead to the achievement of the same qualification that you may attain while studying on-campus. However, when studying an online course you do not need to be physically present in a classroom- as is the case otherwise. You can study from anywhere at a time that is suitable for you.
Online Course Delivery
As the name implies, online courses are entirely delivered online. Registered students are provided with credentials to log into an online learning system for accessing relevant course and study material. This includes tutorials, lectures, readings, etc. Students may also submit the required assignments for assessment online, by logging into the online learning system. However, the functionality of the online learning portal is not only limited to the aforementioned purposes. It may also be employed to interact with instructors and other students via discussion boards and virtual classrooms.
Do I Need to Visit Campus when Studying an Online Course?
If the course that you are registered for is delivered entirely online, it is likely that you are not required to visit a campus at anytime. However, despite having to complete all your coursework online you may still be entitled to avail various facilities offered at the campus. In other cases while you may study the course online, it is probable that you may be required to sit an external exam at a designated location.
Apart from courses that are entirely delivered online, presently combination courses are available too that correspond to blended learning. These courses require the students to attend some classes or workshops at the campus in addition to completing the coursework online.
Some of the online courses may also require you to work as an intern or apprentice.
Why Study Online?
There are numerous advantages of opting for studying online, as enumerated below:
- Flexibility- study at your own pace and at a time suitable for you
- Time management- option to study part-time or along with working professionally
- Easy accessibility- students located anywhere can register for an online course irrespective of campus’ location
- Access to same support facilities as those available for students studying on-campus
- Mentoring and advice by specialist online advisors
Does Online Studying Limit Student Interaction?
No, contrary to common perception it does not. In fact most of the online courses are designed to encourage and facilitate peer-to-peer and student-teacher interaction, especially those that require group work. When studying online you may not meet other students and teachers in person but can communicate with them on a regular basis through online platforms.
Is Online Learning Same as Distance Learning?
Both are fairly the same. Most of the online courses may be referred to as distance learning courses.
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