Broadband adoption, a techie term for the number of people willing to fork over their hard earned dough for high-speed Internet access, is growing exponentially and giving users greater access to the amazing variety of video, audio and animated learning tools on the web. More than ever, people are turning to the Internet for every kind of educational pursuit, from web design to yoga practices. But is the “digital” classroom delivering the same quality as the traditional classroom?
Benefits of Web-based Learning
Clearly, Web-based learning delivers a variety of benefits, not the least of which is convenience. I was perusing a web development course this morning in my boxers, a fashion statement that would not fly in the traditional classroom. Scheduling is also a factor. Many online classes offer on-demand training, so you can squeeze that CSS lesson in right before bedtime. Online courses allow people to learn and still have a life (…or a job, or a spouse, etc.)
Convenience is the obvious benefit, but there are other benefits that are not so apparent. For example, a true leader in a particular field may be teaching an online course, which can have an unlimited amount of students. Live classes, on the other hand, are constrained by the size and location of the venue. If Bill Gates was going to teach a programming class, but it was only available in Bakersfield, California, many students who would like to attend would miss the boat. Not only because of limited seating, but also because Bakersfield is kind of a dump.
Finally, another great reason to take a class online: the rewind button. If you miss a concept, or don’t understand, or the teacher mumbles, the rewind button can save your butt (and tuition dollars). Though we would love to have one in real life, the rewind button simply does not exist the conventional classroom.
So Why Go to a Live Class at All?
Though there are many benefits of a live class, the one that stands out the most is the sense of community one feels when a group of people congregate for a common purpose. College has its own unique set of benefits – like the parties. I threw some off-the-hook parties back in the day, but they did NOT contribute to the absorption of my studies.
So Which Is Better, Live Courses on Online?
If you skipped immediately to this paragraph then online classes are for you. Just like the rewind button, online classes often come with fast forward too, so you can get to the meat of the issue. If you are in a hurry, or need flexibility, then online classes can’t be beat.
But if you truly enjoy the atmosphere and shared experience of a live setting, then you should definitely go that route. Many people consider school a primary source of social interaction (that means parties), and web development goes great with beer.
If you are looking for other types of training, check out the training-classes.com directory of
medical training seminars
Steven Taylor taught himself web design before there were any formal courses in the subject. Over the last 10 years he has designed over 250 sites, and developed countless web, mobile and desktop applications. He is the co-founder and CTO of the 