In recent years, online education has gone from a niche aspect of learning to a significant and influential branch of the education system. From interactive whiteboards in conventional classrooms and YouTube instructional videos to webinars, internet training courses and even full-time university degrees conducted in part or entirely online, most people today will have experienced some degree of digital learning.
But what are the benefits of online learning, particularly in a complex and multifaceted field like mental healthcare? And how can students ensure they get the most out of their digital education experience?
In this article, we examine the key advantages of online learning, how they are typically applied, and why mastering digital technology is a crucial aspect for anyone embarking on a new career. In addition, we also look at how online learning is applied in the field of mental healthcare, and the important role it plays in lifelong learning.
A more flexible approach
There is no question that some aspects of in-person learning, such as face-to-face contact, group discussions and practical demonstrations, are of tremendous value. At the same time, many parts of a university course, for example, can be well-replicated in an online setting. In many cases the online learning experience is at least equal and, in some cases, preferable to an on-campus degree. With a positive and proactive approach to digital connectivity, online learning can be extremely beneficial.
First and foremost, online degrees are highly prized by anyone who requires a greater degree of flexibility and convenience in their learning. If, for example, someone has prior work or family commitments, the ability to view an important lecture at any time of day is a significant advantage, while being able to pause and go back to rewatch trickier parts of the presentation is also useful. Similarly, seminar sessions via video call are also far easier to attend for many people than having to travel to a specific site.
Tailor-made learning
Flexible learning is particularly popular for postgraduate degrees in fields such as mental health, where many students will continue to work in a full or part-time position throughout their studies, and in some cases will have to juggle their studies with unpredictable or irregular working schedules. As a result, most online degrees are specifically designed to provide the student with the highest degree of flexibility. Though there may still be times when the student must attend a specific seminar or take a test at a designated time, in general, they will have far more opportunity to tailor their learning schedule to their own needs with an online program.
Programs such as the Online Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the American International College incorporate 100% online coursework and require no campus visits. Those looking to earn an online Master’s Degree in Mental Health Counseling are able to study all the material needed to become a licensed mental health counselor without having to commit to a rigid schedule and burdensome travel commitments. Assistance is also provided to help students find field placements in their local area so they can gain the practical experience vital to their education without having to move or travel further afield.
Global education at your fingertips
One of the major benefits of online learning is the ability to access first class education from wherever you are in the country or even the world. International students can often access prestigious courses far more easily, while many students also find that online courses are more diverse. In addition, by using digital tools such as online journals and publications, video courses and mental health forums, university students are also more easily able to access a wide range of materials that might be relevant to their course, and even expand their knowledge beyond the basic curriculum. This is particularly useful in the field of mental health, where research and our theoretical knowledge are developing at a rapid rate.
Students can also build a more customized learning experience, where they shape not only their schedule but their overall educational approach to best suit their individual strengths and needs. Online education also often provides excellent opportunities for enhanced interactivity and collaboration, whether through more formal channels such as online seminars, one-to-one sessions with tutors or integrated project work, or through informal group or individual chats with classmates and peers.
Finding the right path for continuous improvement
Even after graduation, online tools can be crucial for development. If someone is able to earn a degree as a qualified counselor, for example, they can use their proficiency with technology to help them with everything from identifying career advancement opportunities to providing digital services for their patients, which is increasingly expected in the field of mental health. Many graduates will also find that the experience of online learning gained during their degree will help them continue their education in their professional life. After all, someone who is proficient in online learning will likely find it much easier to access information and continue the learning process throughout their career.
Online education opens many doors
It is clear that there is much to be gained from exploring the world of online education. In addition to being able to acquire the theoretical knowledge and technical abilities vital to a career in any field, graduates of online mental health degree programs will be more comfortable in our increasingly digitized world. In other words, a high-quality online education will help prepare graduates for the increasingly important technological aspects of modern mental health treatment, while also ensuring they are ready to provide the highest level of care to their patients.