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Every year on September 15th, we celebrate National Online Learning Day. This day was established to shine a spotlight on the growing impact of online learning platforms and resources, and to encourage individuals to explore new opportunities and methods of learning. Whether you’re a student or a professional, here are some ways you can make the most out of National Online Learning Day.
History of National Online Learning Day
National Online Learning Day was established to recognize the positive effects of digital learning on students and professionals across all subjects and industries. Since its inception, this day has been an opportunity to celebrate the progress of online education and honor the contributions made by educators, students, and institutions involved in the world of digital learning.
Online learning’s roots can be traced back to the late 20th century, but it wasn’t until the 2010s that e-learning platforms began to gain widespread attention. Online learning platforms provide individuals with additional options for education, often being more affordable than their in-person counterparts. National Online Learning Day honors these advancements and serves as a reminder to take advantage of the countless opportunities digital education has to offer.
Researching Scholarships
One of the most practical ways to celebrate National Online Learning Day is by researching scholarships for online programs. Many institutions and organizations now offer scholarships specifically for online students. Whether you’re pursuing a full degree of just a certification (more on that in a bit), there are financial resources available to help ease the burden of tuition.
When researching, focus on scholarship databases such as Scholarships.com or Fastweb, which allow you to filter for online-specific programs. Some scholarships are even aimed at non-traditional students or those changing careers, making online learning a viable option for individuals across various stages of life. Be sure to carefully review the eligibility requirements and deadlines, and consider how the scholarship aligns with your career goals.
Finding Student Loans for Online Colleges
While scholarships are ideal, sometimes additional funding is necessary to cover the cost of your education. Student loans tailored for online learners can be another way to support your educational journey. Contrary to the popular belief that loans are only available for traditional in-person colleges and universities, many lenders now offer loans specifically for online degrees and courses.
When searching for student loans, it’s crucial to ensure the online program is accredited. This is a key factor in determining whether federal financial aid or private student loans will be available to you. You can start by checking FAFSA and other platforms such as Sallie Mae or Earnest, but before you commit to any loan, make sure you compare interest rates, repayment terms, and any borrower protections that might be available to you.
Obtaining Certifications and Licenses
In today’s competitive job market, certifications and licenses can help you stand out, and National Online Learning Day is a great time to focus on obtaining such credentials. Whether you’re looking to get certified in project management, digital marketing, coding, or data science, there are numerous platforms that offer accredited certification programs online.
There are a wide range of online platforms that offer certification courses that are recognized by employers. In fact, LinkedIn has its own dedicated platform called LinkedIn Learning that allows you to gain practical skills that you can apply to your career. Take some time to research online learning platforms to decide which one works best for you and your role, and consider using National Online Learning Day as an opportunity to take the steps needed to obtain a license or certification.
Signing Up for Online Courses
One of the easiest and most direct ways to celebrate National Online Learning Day is by enrolling in a new online course. You may start by checking out platforms such as Udemy, Skillshare, and Khan Academy. In addition to these, many traditional universities offer their own online courses. Whether you’re looking to advance your career, explore a new hobby, or simply expand your knowledge, signing up for an online course can be an excellent way to invest in yourself.
Consider courses that align with your professional development or personal interests. For instance, if you’re interested in technology, coding bootcamps can give you valuable, hands-on experience. For more on tech bootcamps, check out our previous blog here. Many platforms offer certifications upon completion, making it easier to showcase your new skills to potential employers.
Researching Industry Trends and Best Practices
Staying updated on the latest industry trends is crucial for career growth, and National Online Learning Day provides the perfect opportunity to dive into research. Whether you’re in tech, finance, healthcare, marketing, or any other industry, spend some time researching current and emerging trends, along with the most recent updates to industry best practices.
Some effective methods for gathering this kind of information are through webinars and industry-specific newsletters. Many thought leaders host free webinars where they discuss the latest advancements and challenges in their fields. By attending these events or simply reading up on industry publications, you can stay ahead of the curve and gain valuable insights to apply in your current or future roles.
It’s always the perfect time to learn something new, so don’t restrict your knowledge-seeking endeavors to just one day out of the year. Information is always changing, new techniques and practices constantly emerge, and industry trends evolve very quickly. By keeping your finger on the pulse and staying interested in learning you’ll keep up with changing times and broaden your knowledge of your chosen industry, making you a valuable asset to any employer.
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