Reflecting on the Pros of Online Courses Versus Face to Face Post the Pandemic
#onlinecourses
#onlinelearning
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Jun 19, 2024
Happy Hump Day!
I recently ran a market research survey to help develop my two Yin Yoga and Myofascial Release courses. One particularly interesting comment came up - something like below. It inspired this blog post. Thank you to the person who asked this useful question.
'How could you run such a course online?'
The COVID-19 pandemic revolutionised how we approach learning and professional development. Especially in fields like yoga and wellness. I wasn't a believer of online courses until the pandemic. As a yoga teacher and online course creator, I’ve experienced it firsthand. The transformative impact of online education.
I completed 3 courses which I benefited from ALOT. Way more than I expected. Despite 2 of those courses not having live content for Q & A and live practice.
Here's why online courses are one from this challenging time.
Accessibility and Convenience
One of the most significant advantages of online learning is accessibility. Students from all over the world can join a course without the need to travel. Eliminating the costs of flights and accommodations which can be expensive. The opportunity to train with world renowned teachers like Bernie Clark, Jill Miller, Paul Grilley and Jo Phee, to name just a few. 2 of these courses included myofascial release. Many focused on Yin Yoga. I never thought I'd see the day this would happen. My yin yoga course, for example, offers both pre-recorded sessions. Plus live interactions, providing flexibility that accommodates any schedule.
Enhanced Learning Experience
In face-to-face settings, courses often host up to 60 participants. Especially if it's a world renowned teacher. Making it difficult for students to see, hear, and interact with the instructor. This large format can hinder the ability to take detailed notes. And recall information later. Some courses the instructors alllow photos and/or videos. the large number of attendees can make it impossible to capture all the details. As one's view and audio quality obstructed by the crowd. This has been my experience looking back at notes of courses that I completed a decade ago. Even just before the pandemic.
Freedom to Record and Review
A notable limitation in many live courses is the strict ban on recording or taking photos. This policy often stems from privacy concerns. Or the proprietary nature of the content. Yet, it can hinder students who benefit revisiting the material post-class. In scenarios where recording allowed. The practical limitations due to large class sizes still make it challenging. to capture every essential detail. Online courses like mine not only allow but encourage revisiting recorded sessions. This is can be crucial for detailed practices or ones that aren't grasped immediately. Due to its complexity. Most of my courses grant 12 months access to all course content. Including downloadable written materials, which enhances their learning and retention. This provides ample time to review every details at a convenient time. Most of them are also self paced (within the 12 months). This can reduce the stress around keeping up with the rest of the cohort. It can also give more dedicated and less time restricted students more options. i.e completing the courses quicker.
Cost-Effectiveness
Online courses generally cost less to produce and attend. Which makes them more affordable for a wider audience. This means more people can pursue their interests. Plus professional development without the burden of excessive costs.
Personalised Learning and Support
Online courses can also offer more personalized support. Instructors can provide feedback through various digital platforms without the constraints of time. And physical presence. This creates an environment where students can receive individual attention. Guidance and it can foster a better learning experience.
While traditional face-to-face learning has its merits. The advantages of online courses can often out-way them:
Flexibility;
Accessibility;
Cost-effectiveness; and
The freedom to use learning aids like recordings.
Online learning will continue play a key role in education across all fields.
Yours in wellness
Liz
