Technology has revolutionised every aspect of our lives; from the way we communicate to the way we learn. The Information Age is well and truly upon us; need to know what time it is in Tokyo? Ask Google. Want to know why we have eyelashes? Ask the internet. We have an infinite amount of valuable, useless, false and bizarre information at our fingertips, and the need to be ‘clued-up’ is greater than ever. This is partly why a journey of lifelong learning has become an essential part of our personal growth, and future career survival.

If you’re reading this, it’s possible that you’re toying with the idea of adding new skills to your repertoire but have limited experience and want to know more.

If you’ve only ever experienced face-to-face classes, a dash of apprehension about online learning is completely normal, even if you consider yourself tech-savvy. From the many, we’ve identified five key benefits the delivery format offers.

  1. Flexibility
    Let’s start with the obvious, studying online means you can study anywhere, provided you have the necessary equipment (like a laptop/computer) and access to the internet. But even the wifi obstacle can be overcome, with online education providers allowing you to download resources for offline access.
  2. Affordability
    Beyond a course fee, maybe an application fee, and perhaps some resource material, there are no other costs associated with studying online. You don’t have to worry about housing, transport or any of the costs connected with traditional face-to-face education. If you opt for financial assistance through a student loan or a payment plan, interest will likely be less as online learning is the most affordable means of getting educated these days. This translates to lower debts and more savings.
  3. Self-discipline and responsibility
    Self-motivation and responsibility are consistently listed as a pitfall of online learning, but who says they have to be a disadvantage? It’s true that studying online requires self-discipline and effective time-management skills — on the plus-side, these are super-valuable skills that will stand you in good stead, for employees and business-owners alike. You can proudly put it on your CV, along with your online course certificate as an official seal of approval.
  4. Career growth and hobbies
    Adding fresh expertise to your CV is the only way to move in a new direction, be more competitive or get a promotion. Online learning just makes it so much easier. No matter what industry you’re in, there are tons of skills that you can learn to open up new opportunities and give you the edge over your peers. Whether the course takes 5 weeks or a year you’re sure to gain experience and new skills that will grow your career! Or who knows, that new hobby you decided to take up, might turn into a side-hustle one day!

Low risks, big rewards — taking an online course just makes sense. Need some guidance on your journey of lifelong learning or don’t know where to start? We’ve got a diverse mix of online courses, ranging from 5 weeks to 2 years. From Graphic Design to UX Design and Creative Thinking, our online short courses have been designed for the needs of 21st Century working and aspiring professional. If you’re looking for more in-depth training, our 1-year Certificate or 2-year Advanced Diploma in Digital Marketing might be for you. Request a callback (or an email if you prefer) from one of our career advisors who are there to guide you.

About the Author

Chulu Ngesi is a graduate intern at Red & Yellow. She enjoys watching movies and series and eating at least one baked good a week.