A guide to online learning

Online learning is a convenient way to study for a qualification, such as a certificate, diploma or degree. It can improve your employment prospects and provide you with the knowledge and skills to progress in your career. All online learning is generally the same, delivered through a web-based learning platform.

The Open University

The Open University is one of the leading universities providing online degrees in the UK and across Europe. The degrees are delivered through online and offline study. The courses are divided into three levels, from one to three. You can study courses which will count towards a degree qualification. After you have enrolled onto a course, you will be sent your course materials by post, which will consist of textbooks, audio and video CDs, a course handbook or companion and an assignment booklet. This is generally the same for all the online university courses. Login You will also be provided with a login for you to access the course website. On this learning platform, there may be facilities for you to interact with other students in forums, participate in discussions or contact your course tutor.
Assignments and exams Assignments are uploaded and submitted through an electronic marked assignment system which tutors have access to, so that they can mark and return your work. Some online courses will have an exam which is to be taken at an exam centre, whilst other courses will have an extended piece of work, such as a project which students are required to complete and return via the electronic assignment system.

Business skills courses online

In addition to the degree courses, there are also a variety of classes and online courses for business skills, such as business diplomas and office skills, such as typing or audio-typing. Similar to the online university courses, business skills can be learned via a web-based platform, where students can log in and access their course. Online education is becoming ever more popular as more people are wanting to improve their skills and employment prospects whilst also remaining in work. Courses, such as these are convenient ways of learning, which can be fitted in to busy home and work schedules.