Article: Free Online Training
What is online training?
Online training is electronic learning, using computers and the internet to learn new information. Free online training involves courses or tutorials that are free of charge.
Online training courses are available on a variety of topics, from tutorials in Excel and Java to higher education courses in management and IT and even personal interest subjects such as fitness, safety and dog training.
Online training uses both technology and traditional teaching methodologies to help you interactively engage with a subject and learn about it.
How did online training begin?
Online training grew alongside computer and internet technology. The first online training courses were developed for classrooms and students from Kindergarten to Grade Six. Students used interactive online textbooks to supplement face-to-face course material. The industry has grown significantly since its origin in the 1980s. In the United States in 2003, more than 1.9 million students were using online learning institutions for higher education.
The market is expanding rapidly to include not only students but private corporations and individuals.
How does online training work?
Online training relies on technology and the internet. All online training courses are different, but most use a combination of written text, images, audio, video, animations, and simulations, games or CD ROMs to teach you the information.
In addition, courses offer a number of interactive platforms to reinforce your learning. You can email or instant message other students, or post on discussion boards and forums. Depending upon the type of course you are taking, you can do assignments and sit for tests. Your work could be checked by the course co-ordinator or a specialist, or by self-assessment.
Is online training for you?
There are many advantages to online training. It is flexible and convenient. All you need is a computer, an internet connection and you can study anywhere. Because you determine the pace, you can complete your coursework according to your daily commitments and learning speed. Online training is autonomous, making it a popular choice for large and small businesses.
You can communicate with your classmates regardless of distance. The interactive elements of online training help you learn new information and reinforce your knowledge with ease.
There are also some disadvantages to online training. Like any form of distance education, you lose the face-to-face element of teaching. Despite the benefits of learning independently, some people believe that the social skills gained from face-to-face teaching are more beneficial.
You also need an understanding of computer operation and the Internet. Some critics of online training claims that only internet natives, people who have immersed themselves in technology, can use online training programs. Older people who have not extensively used computers and the internet would be disadvantaged.
Free online training programs are available in many subjects. You can improve your skills set with computer program tutorials or gain accreditation in an area of study that sparks your own personal interest. You should consider all aspects of the subject and recognise your own learning techniques before you settle on the best online education course for you.