Options for Further Education While Working
Technology today makes it possible for working adults to continue learning. Schools have also adjusted classes in order to meet the growing demands of adults who want to go back to school. This means that now more than ever, it is extremely feasible to study while you work. Even if you want to learn PLC programming.
Here are some options you can consider if you work full time but want to go back to school.
Community Colleges
If you plan to pursue a degree program or just study a few subjects, community college is one option for continuing education. Flexible classes that you can take in the evening or on the weekend will help to minimize the time that you take away from work. Most community colleges also let you carry on at your own pace, so you can take a little or as long as you need to complete your studies.
Non-Degree Courses
You can continue learning without enrolling in a degree program. There are programs offered at technical institutes that are skills based. Other non-degree programs include workshops, seminars, certificate classes for business owners and training for the development of specific skills. These institutes, workshops and skill training centers specifically target adults and so their schedules are built to accommodate those who work.
Web Based Schools
There are many accredited online colleges that give adults the flexibility to further their education while taking care of their other responsibilities. Online learning has grown to the point where there are literally thousands of areas where you can study online. In the past this was limited to just a few areas of study, but that has since expanded to include a lot more.
The growing demands for online education have improved the technology, quality of education offered and the structure of the programs. Even traditional universities offer online classes in order to meet the demand.
Today there are hundreds of online schools, so it should be easy to find one that offers classes in your chosen area of study. Online education directories and resource sites will help to make your search easier by providing list of top schools for specific programs. They also feature reviews and resources to help make the experience as hassle free as possible.
Workshops
Workshops are a great option for business owners or entrepreneurs who want to sharpen their skills in a specific area. They are intense and focus on a specific area of learning, for instance, web development, online marketing, and publishing for the web. These are short term learning options that give professionals the information that they need to improve their businesses or work performance. A certificate of completion is usually issued at the end of these workshops.
Specialized Services
Some examples of specialized services that are offered as either online learning or short courses are First Aid training, Fire and Rescue Training, Emergency Management in the Workplace and similar courses. These services are taken to meet specific job requirements, but are also great supplemental skills to have.
Correspondence Courses
Correspondence courses were the primary form of distance learning before the internet took off. The student would order a course of study and the materials would be mailed to their homes. Once one project is completed, the student would mail it back to receive another one. There are still some correspondence courses available although they might not be as extensive as online courses. Like online learning this option provides a way for students to study at their own pace.
What are some other options for learning while working?
By: Kole for PLC Tutor