Online learning has democratized education during the last two decades, giving people the opportunity to complete degrees and get the skills they need to start a career in a range of different industries across the US.
When a student has access to a reliable internet connection, they are able to attend weekly readings, study in their own time, and work on assignments remotely without having to actually relocate and live near a physical university. This breaks down a major barrier for many students who may not, for a multitude of reasons, be able to access traditional higher education.
Online learning also makes education more affordable for the provider as well as the student as courses, seminars and tutoring can be hosted on cloud-based platforms. With just a single connected device, it is possible to do the vast majority of work required for degree-level learning.
Digital learning is also increasing the quality of tutoring through more personalized interactions and experiences. Large lecture theatres are quite impersonal and not suited to tailoring courses for varying student needs. Online learning gives students more one-on-one time with tutors and enables the latter to present different learning paths at a better pace.
There is also greater clarity in online learning as students are able to pause and reflect on what they have taken in and ask questions to teachers immediately if they have misunderstood. This is not the case in actual lectures, which are often hurried to completion and give little room for confused students to talk.
Online learning will be crucial to the workforce of tomorrow in healthcare. The ‘Future of Nursing Report’ from the Institute of Medicine found that fully trained, advanced practice registered nurses need to make up a larger percentage of the nursing population in order to deliver the care that patients need in the years to come.
This is why it is so important for ambitious people to undertake nurse practitioner schooling – they will be able to become a family nurse practitioner (FNP) online via one of several entry points, including an Associate Degree in Nursing and a Master of Science Nursing.
By going to a reputable university and completing a comprehensive online course that prepares you for the world of work, you can pursue a dream career in healthcare. Becoming a nurse at this critical point during the pandemic will also be especially rewarding as you can make a real difference in battling COVID-19 through patient education.
Nursing is just one area where higher education via online courses could unlock your potential. One of the most unique aspects of online learning is its flexibility. You will be able to explore different subjects in a way that you may not have done in the past through group project work and class calls via Zoom and other forms of software.
Lecturers are being more creative with how they tackle different modules and set up learning schedules for students. This all contributes to making higher education more cost-effective, easier to access and enjoyable for the student.
Laila Azzahra is a professional writer and blogger that loves to write about technology, business, entertainment, science, and health.