When choosing to upskill or gain more knowledge, there are many new paths for learning besides traditional education, such as online learning. As online learning gains more traction, naysayers invent new myths about it. Let’s debunk myths about online learning that may have detracted you from pursuing it.
Myth 1: Online Qualification Lacks Credibility
People often think that online courses and degrees are not valued by employees as much as traditional education. While having a degree is a great way to show your knowledge and commitment to a field of work, it is not required by every employer. Though online degrees usually hold the same credibility as traditional education, online courses also hold value for employers when hiring or promoting employees. In fact, in some cases, they may even prefer online education over traditional. Gone are the days when employers were wary of any online education. Now, online courses and degrees are of high quality, taught by industry experts and highly qualified instructors, which doesn’t make them inferior to traditional education.
Myth 2: It is Difficult to Build a Network
Online classes are not an isolated mode of learning. You can interact with your peers and the instructors to form lifelong relationships. While interaction is undoubtedly easier face-to-face, it isn’t entirely absent in the online medium, where students can engage with fellow peers over assignments, projects, forums, and virtual clubs.
Myth 3: You Need to be Technologically Advanced for Online Learning
The learning curve for any e-learning platform is usually not steep. It is easy to get the hang of things and then follow the usual routine. These platforms for online learning are well-designed and are becoming more sophisticated for better user experience. You will only need an internet connection and a device for your online learning journey.
Myth 4: Online Learning is Easier
Seeing people take classes at home, it is often assumed that online learning is easy, especially in comparison to its counterpart, traditional education. However, the coursework is usually similar to or the same as on-campus education. Similarly, online courses have an enriching and comprehensive curriculum that allows learners to upskill in a competitive environment. Any form of online learning is not to be taken lightly!
Myth 5: It is Difficult to Motivate Yourself When Learning Online
Self-discipline and time management are key aspects of online learning. Learners who struggle with motivation can benefit from the organized environment of online learning. Online degrees can have a specific induction module to help learners prepare for their studies ahead. An online study planner can also help in time logging effectively to make time for other activities or work along with studying. Online courses also have deadlines that keep learners motivated to earn their certification in due time.
Myth 6: Online Learning Means No Value for Money
Learners are often worried that studying online will not provide the same value for money as in-person learning modes. While online learning does save a lot of money by eliminating the costs of travel, accommodation, and childcare, the fees are also structured to provide value for money and show the quality of the course. Online learners experience the same academic rigor and expertise as any in-person learner.
Myth 7: Faculty Teaching Isn’t Great
Learners often misunderstand that online courses have faceless instructors, making the experience distant. While online learning may not have the same face-to-face interaction as in-person learning, the curriculum is designed to fulfill the learner’s needs. There are also occasional live chats to interact with the instructors, and the courses are interactive, requiring learners to engage actively with their peers as well as the instructors.
Myth 8: Anyone can Succeed In Online Learning
Online education is great for learning remotely and is accessible, but it is not for everyone. It requires perseverance, discipline, time management, and consistency. Even though the courses can be self-paced, learners need to meet deadlines. Therefore, punctuality is also important, even if the courses provide enough flexibility.
Now, you have a better idea of what online learning entails. If you treat online learning with a similar disciplined approach as traditional education, you will have a great experience with convenience and flexibility to upskill alongside working.