Advantages of Online University over Regular University

Question: Discuss about the Advantages of Online University over Regular University. Answer: Introduction The gradually improving reputation of online universities over the regular universities tends to attract more enrollments. According to Open Education Database (2012), almost fifty percent of the higher educational institutions are involved in online learning. Most students tend to prefer online universities as they offer them the privilege to learn at their convenience, incur fewer costs for programmes, access course materials anywhere and broaden their knowledge through interaction with instructors and students Worldwide. This paper will extensively explain the applicability of these advantages in the contemporary environment. Research conducted among the working members states that they opt for online universities because they allow them the opportunity to plan their most appropriate time to conduct their studies. In the interviews conducted in various places of work, the employees seemed to be more delighted of the fact that they can study and as well advance their careers. Approximately eighty percent of the students enrolled in online learning are comfortable as they are spared the physical strain they have to undergo in sitting for hours attending lectures (Open Education Database, 2012). Unlike in regular universities where students are rehearsed to fit in the fixed schedule, learning in online universities is self-paced and autocratic. Learning is done in the rhythm that suits one the best. This enables the students to perform even better since they can revisit challenging chapters for better understanding. The fact that they are not pushed to a stated timeframe to complete their courses is an advan tage to perfect their understanding. According to Shevchenko (2012), studying in online universities is economical and cost-effective. Courses offered online are more affordable than those offered by traditional universities. Though this might not always be the case, online learning is still cheaper as one does not have to incur commuting costs to access learning. Furthermore, one is not required to buy textbooks and other course materials as they are readily available online. Some courses are however provided free online. Those interested are not charged to undertake them. Though no certificates of qualifications are presented at the end of the study, they are relevant for general knowledge. Empirical studies show that students consider online learning more effective because the course materials can be accessed anywhere and anytime. Due inherent characteristics, students have different time-frames at which they work the best; some in the morning and others in the evening (Open Education Database, 2012). Provision of learning materials online enables them to work at their convenient time(Shevchenko, 2012). In regular universities, students have to either go to the library to obtain course materials or to buy them in the bookshops. This makes it hard to study at extreme hours, for example, at night. In online learning, only an internet connection is required to acquire any information needed. This provides an opportunity to engage in learning anytime one needs to. The constant interaction with tutors and other learners online broadens the scope of knowledge (Open Education Database, 2012). Since one is not restricted to any amount of content, they can explore more.This widens the knowledge in certain aspects which is helpful (Open Education Database, 2012) Involvement in online discussion forums empowers students and enhances their communication skills through the expression of ideas. More than fifty percent of the employers Worldwide have trust in online qualifications due to their higher ranking in the knowledge domain. Conclusion Online learning has increased the number of university enrollments due to its countless benefits.The minimal consideration of past educational qualifications gives an opportunity for enrollment for those interested. An integration of web-based learning with regular universities will bring an added value to the quality of knowledge acquired. The continuous improvement in technology is more promising even to bring more reformations in the field of education. References Shevchenko, D. A. (2012). Competitive Advantages of a Modern University: A Virtual University. SSRN Electronic Journal, 10-14. Open Education Database. (2012, January 10). Accredited, Online, Speciality, and Campus-Based Colleges. Retrieved March 21, 2017, from Online Education Leader: https://oedb.org/ilibrarian/10-advantages-to-taking-online-classes/