Taking courses online differs significantly from the experience of traditional face-to-face instruction. Distance learning classes require new ways of thinking and learning. Online learning has become one of the most effective ways of gaining qualifications and accreditation in the modern day areas of personal and professional development. Online learning is a positive experience for most students. You’ll be most successful if you’re knowledgeable about online learning before taking a course.

• You’ll need a computer and Internet connection. Click here to see minimum requirements.
• Basic Internet and computer skills are required.
• Online learning is often accelerated and requires that you are motivated and can work independently.
• Although you can save time taking an online course, you’ll still need to devote a sufficient number of hours each week.
• You’ll need to be able to express yourself well in writing.
• You are likely to incur reduced expenses by taking online courses. Calculate your potential cost savings.
• Online courses may fit better with your busy life because you can access your classes anytime, anywhere through the Internet.
• You can simultaneously take on-campus and online courses.
• You may need to attend some classes in person as well as online. Check your course description for more information.
• Many students who aren’t comfortable participating in on-campus classes find they contribute more freely online.

• Flexibility: You are able to undertake learning at times which are suitable to YOU and not have to adhere to the operating hours of a training provider.
• Own Pace: You can complete your study at your own pace and not have to rely on the rest of the class. In other words, the completion date of your qualification is predominantly up to you!
• Price: Online learning is usually cheaper as the you are not paying for the physical resources a Training Provider uses in a traditional classroom environment.
• Resource Availability: You have access to an extensive scope of online resources and are able to undertake research immediately without having to leave your study area.
• Convenience: You can undertake your study at home, at the office or whilst travelling – anywhere you can access the internet!
• Ability to Review: You can review all aspects of study including all learning guides, presentation materials, discussions & assignments as everything is digitally recorded – you are not relying on oral communication methods.
• Study Skills: You will acquire good study habits and time management skills from working independently.
• Latest Information: You can always be assured that the materials you are learning from are current as the training provider is able to immediately update the resources being utilised with the most recent and relevant concepts and information

Is Distance Learning Right For You?
Take this quick easy test to find out if distance learning is right for you.

If you answered, "yes" to most of those questions, then distance learning may be right for you! If you felt less confident in some areas, you may need to strengthen some of your technology skills before attempting an on-line course.

Here is some additional information about distance learning.