# 4 - You can take advantage of new learning technologies
Online courses are increasingly becoming integrated with mobile technologies so you can do your course while watching TV or sitting on the bus . Lectures are also increasingly being replaced by podcasts and videos , making learning more student-centred and ensuring you can learn in your own time and space .
# 5 - You will develop a digital skill set
When you complete an online course or a degree , you will have experience using online learning tools such as Google Docs , Canvas , Blackboard , Webinars , Group Wikis and Forums . You can make this part of your CV as it shows potential employers that you ’ re a future-facing , technology-enabled digitally capable employee .
But nothing is perfect and online learning has some distinct disadvantages such as :
# 1 - Statistically you ’ re more likely to quit
Multiple studies have highlighted that online students are more likely to quit than full-time , on-campus students . This is largely due to the lack of social constructs and the need for self-discipline and self-motivation in online learning . How to persist ? Set small , progressive goals to strive towards week-in and week-out .
# 2 - Your study time and personal time clash
Without set class times , you ’ ll find that you ’ re often interrupted while studying . Your child may have a ‘ quick ’ question , or you have to take a meeting with a client that runs over the set time . The distinction between personal and work time is blurred . When you have the freedom to study from home , you also have the added issue of needing to juggle , separate and divide work time from personal time . Allocate time in your diary to study – and do not waver from these times .
# 3 - You will have regular tech Issues
If Windows is not suddenly updating , or Eskom announces stage 4 load shedding , or your laptop crashes in the middle of an assignment that you have not saved ……. Technology issues will arise . Be prepared . Do you have a partner whose laptop you can use ? Are your lectures recorded for later viewing ? Are you comfortable with learning how to use basic online technologies like Google Docs and Canvas or Blackboard learning management systems ? You don ’ t need to know how to use them right now but you need the confidence to be able to learn how to use these tools in the short-term future .
These are not the only pros and cons . Of importance is that no education solution is perfect . You need to find the one that suits your lifestyle and personality best .
Continues on Page 28
27