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The Impact of Online Courses in Higher Education

Student engaging in online learning, with Ascend Education logo and "Blog Post" text

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In today’s swiftly evolving educational landscape, online learning courses play a pivotal role in higher education. Publishers like Ascend Education are at the forefront of this transformation, harnessing technology to provide a high-quality educational experience. Let’s delve into the tangible benefits that online learning brings to both students and instructors.

Learning at a Distance

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, approximately 9.4 million students, or 61 percent of all undergraduate students, were enrolled in at least one distance education course in the fall of 2021, with 4.4 million taking distance education courses exclusively. Online learning makes distance education possible, disrupting the traditional geographical barrier that keeps people worldwide from obtaining an education. 

Online learning is also cheaper than traditional learning. The Education Data Initiative reported that for the 2019-20 academic year, the average per-credit-hour tuition for online instruction was 53% cheaper compared to tuition for in-person instruction in the US among public schools, and 61% cheaper among private schools. 

Real-World Relevance

The fast-paced nature of the modern job market demands practical skills and up-to-date knowledge. Online courses often prioritize real-world applicability. Publishers like Ascend Education design their courses to prepare students for industry-recognized certifications, giving them both the skills and the recognition necessary to succeed in the workplace.

Personalized Learning

According to ScholarPath, “One way that technology is breaking barriers is through its ability to personalize learning experiences. Adaptive learning platforms can tailor educational content to meet each student’s specific needs and preferences, allowing them to learn at their own pace and focus on areas where they need more support. This individualized approach can help students overcome obstacles and reach their full potential.”

Additionally, Instructors can focus their time less on preparing content and more on administering to individual needs of their students. This personalized approach fosters a deeper understanding of the subject matter and a higher level of engagement between students and instructors.

Lifelong Learning

87% of workers believe that it will be essential for them to develop new job skills throughout their work life to keep up with changes in the workplace, according to a report by Pew Research Center. Online learning courses empower professionals to update their skills, earn certifications, and stay competitive in their careers or even change careers without the need for a full-time return to campus.

The Ascend Education Advantage

In conclusion, online learning courses are not a fleeting trend; they are a transformative force in higher education. They offer accessibility, global connectivity, personalization, real-world relevance, and lifelong learning. Ascend Education, with its commitment to excellence, stands as a testament to this educational revolution, empowering individuals worldwide to ascend to new heights of knowledge and career success.

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