Executive courses |Online education

Executive education has historically been a classroom-based experience, but more and more business schools around the world offer online executive training, from workshops and certification programs to full executive MBA programs. In fact, about 20 percent of the programs listed here are taught in the Executive courses Navigator online. How should you decide the appropriate format for your educational goals and what are the benefits of each type of learning?

The first step is to consider your goals and examine any form of learning that fits the set of skills you need. Is the primary priority for acquiring basic knowledge of a new region or technology? The online course may be the thing. Or do you want to improve your management behavior and build a network of experienced colleagues who face situations similar to your circumstances, in which case direct interaction with your colleagues can be valuable? Let’s take a closer look at your options and their respective advantages.

Reasons to take an online course

Initially, there is a clear double advantage of the programs that are taught online: flexibility and accessibility. For anyone who is constrained by geographic restrictions or time constraints, virtual learning platforms give participants control over the frequency and place of their studies. For some, identifying Web-based collaboration tools can help them prepare for team management and telecommuting. For others, e-platforms provide a less intimidating and more convenient environment for effective participation.

Companies also experience the benefits of providing online training to their employees. "With a strong learning platform on the Internet, organizations can identify new skills gaps and develop content to train their people in these areas and spread this training around the world quickly," said Hittendra Wadwa, a professor. Practicing professionals at Columbia Business School. "Online Education can provide a common platform through which a company can create a culture of best practices," said Wadwa, who teaches two online programs on his own.

Reasons to take a classroom course

On the other hand, sitting in a room with your peers and coach is an invaluable experience when it comes to creating professional networks and experiential learning. "The face-to-face lessons help participants learn from each other and compare them with their peers," said Dr. McLos Sarvari, director of the Columbia University School of Business and Technology program at the Columbia Business School. "We often teach case studies, learn through exchange and learn tools. "By comparing topics that one can learn on the Internet rather than on the site," says Sarvari, "Although it is good to learn something, like asset prices in a virtual environment, strategic analysis or leadership skills are very difficult. On the Internet "

Benefits of online / classroom hybrid course

Finally, there are also some programs that offer the best of both worlds: a hybrid form of online learning in the classroom. Most often, you’ll see mixed learning formats in longer programs, such as Executive courses, where classes and homework are done in the cloud, while classroom time is spent in interactive exercises and case studies.

Recently, some programs have begun to allow participation in virtual and personal sessions simultaneously. "What seems to be a growing win is simultaneous online learning, where the virtual classroom is connected to virtual / online participants," says Dr Sarvari. "For example, in a course I taught recently, half of the students were physically present and the other half was recorded remotely, and the classroom was able to create a real interaction where everyone could participate well during the interaction with the faculty. Takes most of the advantages of coordination. "

With many leading business schools offering online programs, there is no shortage of options. Just use your personal priorities and educational goals online education to choose the right format for you.

Hughes Global Education is the pioneer in providing the ‘Interactive Online Learning Platform’ for the working professionals to pursue an Online Executive Diploma/Certificate Programs.