Do online courses provide real value?

I’ve come to the conclusion that attending the university I intended to is no longer feasible due to financial constraints. I am now considering pursuing online courses, such as those offered by Google. My mother is skeptical about their effectiveness, while my uncle has previously completed one of these Google courses. I’m curious whether these courses contribute to actual success in the real world and if they are a valuable use of my time.

Having taken a few online courses myself, I can affirm that they hold significant value, especially if you’re someone who is self-disciplined and motivated. Many of these courses are designed by industry professionals and provide up-to-date knowledge and practical skills that are highly relevant in today’s job market. They often offer the flexibility to learn at your own pace and focus on specific skill areas that may not be covered in traditional university curricula. Moreover, companies nowadays recognize and appreciate candidates who have shown initiative through self-learning via reputable online platforms. Just ensure you choose courses from credible sources, like established educational platforms, to enhance your learning experience and improve your career prospects.

online courses can be super worth it if you pick the right ones. they offer flexability and some give certificates that are valuable! Plus, they’re wayyy cheaper than traditional college degrees. your uncle’s experience might be a good indicator—ask him about it! Good luck :slight_smile:

Hey there! :blush: It’s great that you’re exploring this avenue, especially considering how dynamic and accessible online learning has become lately. I’m curious – does your uncle feel that his course opened doors for him or helped him transition to a new role? Sometimes personal stories can be the most convincing.

Also, think about what exactly you want out of the course. Is it specific skills, a desire to network, or maybe a way to test the waters in a particular field? Different goals might make different courses more appealing. And, there are tons of forums like this where you can also hear about other people’s experiences, balance out your mom’s skepticism with some positive stories :blush: What do you think about trying a short free course first, as a sort of trial run to see how you feel about the whole setup? Curious to hear what you decide!

From my personal experience, online courses are quite effective in providing relevant skills that can be directly applied in the workforce. One advantage is that they frequently update their curriculum to align with industry trends, which may not always be the case with conventional university courses. However, it’s crucial to be strategic about selecting courses that align with your career aspirations. Research the course content, instructors, and possibly the course reviews or testimonials from other learners. Also, consider courses that include practical projects or assessments, as these can help reinforce the learning process and expose you to real-world scenarios. This practical application of knowledge can sometimes be more useful than traditional academic qualifications. But remember, much of the value you derive depends on your commitment and ability to stay focused and engaged throughout the course duration.