As the 4th industrial revolution is gradually evolving, the educational sector appears to be adjusting to accommodate it. Before the outbreak of Covid-19 in December 2019, learning institutions were already combining physical lectures with online courses.
Following the outbreak of the virus, many more institutions have introduced online learning while new ones have been established to deliver lectures strictly online. This development has led to an increase in the number of people signing up for online courses. In this article, we consider 5 reasons many more people are showing interest in online education. Why Study Online? Here are 5 reasons online learning is gaining traction like never before. 1. Accreditation A major concern for potential learners is the fear of enrolling in institutions that are not accredited by relevant bodies. However, accreditation goes beyond studying on campuses. Some learning institutions with physical classrooms and campuses are not necessarily accredited to offer certain certificates. Therefore, these institutions are to be avoided regardless of the modes of delivery adopted. However, many well-known institutions of learning with physical campuses and walled classrooms now deliver some courses entirely online.
Similarly, some other institutions like MSBM have – in partnership with campus-based universities – also been accredited to deliver fully online programmes. What’s more, certificates acquired through online lectures are as valid as those acquired on campus. Simply watch out for accreditation. 2. Increased Opportunity The introduction of online education has increased the chances of gaining admission. One of the limitations of campus-based institutions is the inability to provide adequate facilities for all intending learners. As a result, admissions are highly competitive and most applicants are not admitted.
The accreditation of online courses is a way of making educational opportunities accessible to a larger number of qualified applicants who would otherwise be disqualified because of the need to control population.
3. Satisfaction Another factor driving the traction for online learning is the level of satisfaction already experienced. Data from the 2021 edition of the Annual Online Education Trend Report indicates that 95% of students overall and 83% of remote learners would recommend online learning to others. 93% of the 1,800 respondents said their degrees had had or would have a positive return on investment. Meanwhile, 74% believed online learning was better than or equal to on-campus schooling. 4. Flexibility Perhaps the greatest reason many learners prefer online learning to on-campus study is the flexibility it offers. Online learners mostly eat their cakes and have them – they can retain their jobs, manage their businesses or travel to different parts of the world without staying out of school. Add to that the advantage of repeating a lesson as many times as you need.
In addition, individual students can choose the most convenient schedule for them to study. In other words, learners enjoy a customised learning experience that is not available to on-campus students. 5. Same Quality Besides the difference in the mode of delivery, certificates acquired through online learning have the same quality as those acquired on campus. Multinational organisations and other businesses around the world recognise certificates acquired from accredited institutions up to the doctorate level, irrespective of the mode of delivery.
In short, students who work and successfully school online are said to possess admirable qualities as it takes a considerable level of commitment, determination, self-discipline and good time management skills to combine online study with work.
The future of learning
We live in a technology-driven world and advancement in technology is transforming every aspect of societal life, including education. As a result, institutions are beginning to rely more on technology to enhance their capacity and provide opportunities for the growing number of people seeking educational opportunities around the world.
Online learning is not only here with us but it is also the future of learning. Future online learners only have to watch out for accreditation. The benefits of online programs are not exhausted here. If you are in search of a suitable online programme from an accredited institution, check out available courses at MSBM.
