Online education has become quite popular in the past few years, and schools, as well as companies worldwide, are increasingly relying on online platforms to provide educational training, resources, and instruction to their students. As an alternative to traditional classrooms, through e-learning, students and employees have the freedom and availability to customize their learning experience.
Online courses have been increasing in popularity. A study conducted in 2015 by Babson Survey Research Group showed that the number of students that were involved in e-learning was up 5.8% from the previous year, a number that has continued to grow since then.
But what are some of the advantages of online learning when compared to traditional, face-to-face education?
The educational benefits of game-based learning
Game-based learning is being used more and more in educational contexts. Many online classes that are offered at schools and universities are taking a new approach to engaging students. With e-learning platforms like math homework help websites being used, students can enjoy interacting with others while using the latest technology to advance their education.
Introducing gaming into an educational setting has amazing benefits and it can be used not only to teach lessons but to also enhance personal growth and motivation. Serious games have been shown to improve cognitive development in teens. Brain games, for example, have become quite popular and are often used in online classrooms as a way to develop problem-solving techniques.
Online learning rarely offers enough engagement for students. Scientists have measured student engagement when using gamification and proved that game-based learning methods helped to increase productivity. The overall benefits of gaming are quite astounding, among them:
- Engagement
- Motivation
- Dedication
- Results
The power of gaming in education not only enhances the learning experience but also helps to provide a base for the development of soft skills, which are increasingly important in any career path.
Why learn soft skills
HR experts know that soft skills are quite difficult to find in employees, but also play a key role. If given the choice, many managers would take a team with good team players and great communication skills over one with impeccable technical expertise and nothing else.
Soft skills boost personal and professional growth and by learning simple techniques, individuals can master these skills and apply them to the work environment. Learning and developing soft skills will also benefit students as they encourage interaction among peers and enhance teamwork. Some of the key soft skills employers seek are:
- communication skills
- the ability to learn how to lead
- management and negotiation skills
The most innovative way to e-learn soft skills
Game-based learning can be very beneficial in the development of soft skills, and many companies worldwide have turned to gaming to provide their online training. Online game-based learning has been shown to have a positive impact on learning and has some amazing benefits since it allows people to learn something by doing it themselves instead of being told how. By using online simulators, soft skills can be practiced in a way that would be impossible in traditional educational settings.
Game-based learning encourages decision making and strategic thinking as well as improves memory through practical learning. It also adapts to the newest technologies and provides a great opportunity for students to become familiar with the new tools that play a key role in businesses today.
Conclusion: Online learning is evolving and gaining steam
While traditional forms of classroom teaching are still the norm, online learning has taken center-stage and become the preferred option, not only for students and staff but also for teachers and employers alike. By offering the ability to learn online, staff and students can learn at their own pace, enjoying engaging activities through game-based learning and developing skills needed for success.
With more platforms being created and technology improving, this form of education will continue to bolster its hold as the preferred option over traditional classroom learning. Today, more than 5.8 million people are using online courses to complete college studies, and more than 85% of colleges across the United States are accredited for it.
