Online learning continues to surge in popularity, not just because of us all staying at home more in a post-Covid reality. Several factors play a part. Notably, how distance learning better fits modern life, especially given the average person now spends over seven hours a day online.

Online learning can also reduce costs for students. And, as institutions look into how to engage students in online learning, data offers invaluable information. Analysts can use this to learn how to optimize curriculums for greater engagement.

This remote style of learning is already well-embedded in workplaces. Pharmaceutical and fintech companies often use module-based online learning as core training. The sort of training required by their regulatory bodies, and necessary for staff to complete as part of their onboarding.

As for how to do a job, getting trained on this is no longer commonplace—learning on the job is. The more you can do to prepare yourself for that, with qualifications and autonomous learning, the more competitive edge you’ll have. Especially when you’re job hunting.

What does online learning mean?

So, what is online learning? Online learning means that you study remotely. It’s also referred to as distance learning or elearning. It’s an alternative way to study at university, and instead of going to classrooms, you study at home, or wherever you choose, via the internet. Classes, teaching materials, support, and assessments are all delivered online. Often, these are also recorded so they can be re-watched.

You’ll find everything from degrees, to short courses, and practice tests online. It’s important to look for credible places to study, so definitely do your research.

Why is online learning important?

Boil it right down and the answer is simple: change is constant. You must move with it.

The true beauty of online learning is that it lends itself perfectly to your lifestyle. By its very nature, it can fit around you.

Also, no longer are we taught how to do a job, it’s usually a case of figuring it out for yourself—and that’s where online learning can amplify your skills. In the same spirit, gone are the days when you pick one industry or role and stick to it for the rest of your life. It’s much more common—and accepted—to move from company to company, or even industry to industry. Keeping your skills up to date is essential if that’s the path you take.

The more you learn, the more you open your mind

Learning is a little like the continual need for money in life. For example, we spend dollars every day, so working means we replenish our funds. Similarly, we share our knowledge every day, and absorb new things as time progresses. It’s natural and instinctual, and the more we expand our knowledge, the bigger our worlds become. The more you learn, the more you open your mind. Importantly, on a simple, human level, learning is healthy. Keeping the brain active can even play a part in staving off age-related cognitive and memory decline–you are never too old to learn.

What are the pros and cons of online learning?

Let’s start with the pros—and the biggest, most obvious one. Online learning means you can do it from anywhere, wherever you are in the world. And you can often do it at a time that suits you. Some lessons are pre-recorded, depending on the subject and format of what you choose to study. Some also give you homework to complete in your own time. This means you can go at your own pace.

Next, it’s cost-effective. Classroom-based learning means no commuting. Driving, parking, relocating—it all adds up. And if you’re a parent, you may also have to factor in childcare for campus-based learning. These costs almost vanish when you learn online. You’ll also likely save on textbooks, with a lot of course material digitized.

And now, the cons …

There’s a social side to classroom learning that’s hard to recreate online. However, digital meeting software like Zoom has adopted a ‘rooms’ feature, where students can break into small groups. This can help people feel more connected. Here at Hult, we have students joining live online classes from all over the world and have managed to create a sense of community and teamwork through virtual breakout rooms where students can chat, share, and learn in smaller peer-to-peer groups.

Next, self-motivation can be tricky with online learning. It requires good time management, and an element of routine to keep going. With an increasing move to teaching online, professors, too are up-skilling. They’re continually looking into how to make online learning fun and more engaging. Reminding yourself why you’re doing the learning can be useful. Taking a walk around the block for air can often restore your motivation too. It’s about discovering what works for you.

Another thing to watch out for is screen fatigue. It’s real. So take that walk, schedule breaks, and install blue light filters like f.lux on your screens to help.

Where Hult sets the standard in online business education

When it comes to online learning in business education, Hult’s Global Online MBA sets itself apart. Highly ranked at #2 by CEO Magazine and #16 worldwide by QS World University Rankings, our program redefines what it means to study online by blending flexibility with an engaging, global learning environment. 

This unique part-time MBA program is designed for working professionals who want the rigor and recognition of a top-ranked MBA without stepping back from their careers. It balances live online classes with self-guided study, giving participants the ability to structure their learning around their lives. But, for Hult Global Online MBA candidates, learning online doesn’t translate to learning alone. Every other month, students join highly interactive online classes taught live by internationally renowned faculty. They also participate in collaborative, hands-on business challenges to apply their learning together in real time. 

Take a look inside Hult’s virtual MBA classroom:

So despite being an online program, participants can build a global network from home, connecting with professionals from diverse industries and cultures. The program’s virtual breakout rooms, team projects, and faculty office hours create a sense of community that mirrors the traditional campus experience. And for those who want to take networking and learning further, there’s an option to visit campus for two elective courses during the summer. This hybrid approach allows students to experience both the flexibility of online learning and the energy of in-person collaboration—all while maintaining a valuable global perspective. 

With its innovative approach, Hult’s Global Online MBA combines the best of what online learning can offer with the practical, hands-on experience required to thrive in today’s competitive landscape.

Curious about upping your business acumen online?
Visit our website to learn more about our Global Online MBA and Hybrid Executive MBA programs.