Learn online

Online learning is a term used for education that is provided using the Internet as a means of communication. Online learning allows a student to complete study sessions from home or work, using the Internet. Learning resources can be in the form of printed material or material downloaded from the Internet. Due to its interactive nature, which enables two-way communication, the Internet has become an ideal medium for providing distance learning.

Online learning has also made great strides in the corporate sector. One of the main drivers of online learning is the fact that companies understand the importance of creating knowledge-based organizations to stay competitive. New technologies and information continue to proliferate and employee skills need frequent updates. Additionally, executives realized that aligning training with their companies' business objectives was critical.

Online learning can be classified into three types. The first type is non-formal education, which simply involves gathering information for self-study or undertaking research for a specific purpose, such as a school project, presentation, or homework. The other type of online learning is formal and involves enrolling in a course at an academic institution with the intention of earning an educational qualification in the form of a diploma or degree. The third type is corporate online training, which is generally provided or sponsored by a company for its employees, with the aim of improving their skills and imparting information.

Online learning has been argued to be a competent, if not better, mode of instruction compared to traditional classroom instruction. On the other hand, another argument put forward is that online courses can help the student gain a deeper understanding of the fundamentals, but does little to refine or develop an individual's analytical or reasoning skills.

Statistics indicate that classroom teaching remains a predominant form of pedagogy, but online learning is undoubtedly becoming popular.