by An online course refers to any training that is done over the internet. This type of study can also be referred to as cyber-classroom, e-learning, web-based classroom, distance learning, or virtual education. The student and the instructor or tutor interact via numerous means that include chat rooms, e-mail, thread instructions, etc. In this mode of study, the student will access the lecture notes, exams, instructional materials, and class objectives via the internet.
In simple terms, we can define an online course as a way of gaining new knowledge or skills at the comfort of your home. The course can be free or paid and should be an offer by an educational institution or an expert in the field of study.
How the Course Is Organized
Online courses come in different forms such as audio files, educational videos, images, lecture notes, worksheets, etc. and they can be accessed using your laptop, desktop, tablet, or smartphone. Additionally, most of this course has messaging options, community groups, or discussion forums that enable the students to interact with each other and their instructors.
An online course includes a collection of lessons and modules that follow a specific order. The course will also have some way of measuring the students’ performance or achievements, and this may be in the form of exams. Upon successful completion of the online course, the student is awarded a certificate.
The online course must be engaging enough to enable the student to enjoy the lessons besides they should be able to retain knowledge from the lessons and apply in their life,
Why People Prefer Online Courses?
With online courses, you can learn any skill at the comfort of your home. For example, homemakers can teach cooking, house management, online business skills. Other skills you can learn via an online course include playing musical instruments, digital marketing, entrepreneurship, web development, online writing, etc. Online courses are usually cheaper compared to other modes of study. Besides you can ace your course anywhere and at any time.
Who Designs an Online Course?
An expert in a particular field designs an online course. If you have any trending skill, you can create an online course. For example, a digital marketer can develop an online course to share digital marketing skills to others. They may decide to offer the training at cost or for free. The course can be hosted in websites or platforms that host such courses such as Coursera and Udemy. Most individuals who design online course do this as a part-time hustle since they have another job or business. The content of the course must be thorough and up-to-date.
