Today’s students are more tied to technology than ever before—online learning takes place at home, on the bus, and even within the classroom. Students have information at their fingertips no matter where they go. Although potentially frustrating at the dinner table, this may actually make them better students. Online learning helps students by providing more opportunities for education, whether via apps, podcasts, or websites.
In fact, virtual learning exists in many forms, each serving a particular purpose. But what, other than ease of availability, can virtual learning do for you? Here’s how online learning helps students:
Online learning advantage #1: Online tutoring
Online tutoring can be a great option for learning; online tutoring sessions can involve the same rigor that a traditional tutoring session might provide.
You’ll likely have a greater variety of tutors and schedules to choose from, making it a perfect tutoring option. You’re guaranteed to find an expert tutor for your subject area, and they’ll likely take a very personalized approach to your education. It’s also easy to find tutoring year-round.
[Related: 4 Ways an Online Tutor Can Help You Succeed This School Year]
Online learning advantage #2: Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs)
MOOCs are online courses, often free to students, which allow for unlimited learning on the Internet. They cover a breadth of subject matter, and are a great option for students who need to supplement classroom learning or who wish to learn over breaks in their education (like the winter and summer holiday).
MOOCs are also a great option for students who learn well from lectures, since much of the content is presented in lecture form. (However, as popularity has increased, MOOCs have diversified their presentation.) In some cases, students are eligible to earn a verified certificate.
Online learning advantage #3: Mobile apps
For learning on the go, educational apps that can be downloaded onto your tablet or smartphone are great resources. There are many online educational opportunities geared toward basic knowledge, such as:
-
educational games
-
subject-specific mobile apps
-
trivia programs
Alternately, there are also apps that help more generally with the educational process—scheduling, staying organized, etc. Most people have a cell phone with them at all times, so educational apps present a great opportunity for students to fill those in-between times with supplementary education.
Online learning advantage #4: Digital textbooks
Some students prefer to learn via textbook. Textbooks, however, are incredibly expensive to purchase and can be hard to find at the library. Luckily, there are digital textbooks that students can use during their academic careers.
While the books may not always be free, they’re great for supplementing lectures, seminars, or group work. They’re portable, and they sometimes include multimedia content too.
[Related: 3 Efficient Ways to Study on the Go]
Online learning advantage #5: Podcasts
Podcasts are a fantastic way to move student learning outside the classroom, thanks to their ease of use and variety. There’s a podcast for everything, so identify the area where you want to improve your knowledge, and then do a quick search. Not all podcasts are created equal, but by performing a little research, you’re sure to find one that fits your needs.
You can find discussions, lectures, and much more—educational podcasts come in a variety of forms.
The bottom line of online learning
Students learn in a variety of ways, and by utilizing online learning solutions, they’re able to access the best and most individualized educational experience possible. While not every student will need each of these tools, using one or two may make a difference in your academic career.
Digital learning will only continue to progress, and it may be helpful for students and those who support them to recognize the value now. Best of all, most tools are free and are waiting for you to take advantage!
Any topics you want to know more about? Let us know! The Varsity Tutors Blog editors love hearing your feedback and opinions. Feel free to email us at blog@varsitytutors.com.
