RESOURCES - Article - Online Learning

Online Learning

By John Decker

Rachel is working toward an online MBA. Her program is quite impressive. It involves six weeks of classes followed by one week (or more if she wants it) off. She has both individual and team assignments. She works wherever she can carry or connect her computer. There are a large number of courses to choose from. She is meeting busy senior executives who do not have time for traditional MBA classes, and she is developing a world wide network of contacts. At the same time she is sharpening her computer skills and her “e-community” skills.

There are almost limitless online educational opportunities, many catering to seniors. Whether you need to maintain, update or sharpen your skills to stay competitive in your current career; are building an education and skill foundation for a new career; or are preparing for post-retirement volunteering or personal interest activities, there are online education opportunities for you. Side benefits are that you will improve your computer skills, satisfy your curiosity, and possibly meet some new friends. And, you will keep your “learning muscles” in shape.

There are two basic online learning models you should know about. The first is known as synchronous learning where everyone meets together at a specified time for classes as a group. The other is asynchronous learning where you complete the material on your own schedule. Sometimes the two can be combined, for example when you have an asynchronous program with informal study groups meeting at specific times.

There are a number of resources to help you get started. First, if you are still employed, check in with your Human Resources or Training departments to see if they have company sponsored programs or listings of relevant courses, and if tuition reimbursement plans are available. Second, check your local library and talk with a reference librarian for community and inter-library educational programs. You might also check with the local college or colleges, and certainly with your alma mater to see what they have available.

Naturally there are a number of web-based resources for online education programs. You might start with the United States Distance Learning Association (www.usdla.org) for degree granting programs throughout the country. If you are not necessarily interested in a degree, the University of Texas at Austin has created an extensive guide to free online courses from high school equivalency to post graduate training. (www.austin.utexas.edu/wlh/index/cfm). If you are not sure whether online education makes sense for you, you might start with electronic campus (www.electroniccampus.org) to assess your readiness and to find appropriate starting courses.

If you are already a subject matter expert, you might look at becoming an online course leader. The University of Phoenix, among others, has an extensive training program for online teaching.

No matter what your current situation (employed, semi-retired, volunteering, planning travel nationally or internationally, or just naturally curious) there is an online education resource for you.

John C. Decker is an Executive Vice President with TMI Executive Resources. He has successfully implemented and completed job search campaigns for over 1,000 senior level managers, executives, professionals, and entrepreneurs. He is a frequent speaker on executive career management topics.