The blessings of internet: An introduction to edX, coursera and other learning websites
Studying abroad is a dream of every student. Students struggle during their college and university life and after that they look for different scholarships to go abroad and join universities there in order get quality education. But, what about those who can’t avail such opportunities?
There is a solution; Online Learning.
Let me share my experience with you. I’m from Gilgit-Baltistan where quality education is a need. I am from a middle class family. Several years ago, I attended a session on the “Importance of Internet” conducted by the Aga Khan Education Services Pakistan (AKESP). There, I was informed about many educational websites, like edX, Coursera, Udacity, Khan Academy, even Google, for getting latest information, and education, almost any topic. I was stunned and excited. Earlier, my exposure to internet was limited to Facebook and Twitter only. Knowing about these websites opened a new horizon for exploration and learning. Since then, I have registered on these websites, and continue learning online.
Now days, along with my University lessons, I use these websites during my spare times. They provide top quality education to everyone around the world. Those who have internet access can easily take free and certified courses on these websites. They provide courses from excellent universities on various subjects, like Science, Mathematics, Arts and Humanities, World History, personal development and many more.
Khan Academy, specifically, improved my Mathematics and scientific skills. It is a massive learning tool. Short and precise videos explain the concepts well and it’s fun to use it. Coursera and edX gave me the opportunity to enhance my critical thinking in various fields like Science, English and Logical Reasoning. It connected me to the top institutions like MIT.
On edX I took a free course from MIT on ‘’Biochemistry: The Secret of Life”. It was an immense learning experience. On udacity I took personal development courses; I learned about healthy life styles like yoga and meditation from Deepak Chopra (MD).
Google for Education is a massive virtual education school where I learned so many new stuff. You tube is a virtual hub where I improved my English skills, by listening and watching.
Distance learning is playing a key role in education nowadays. Interacting with world’s best instructors and universities is an awesome experience. The Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCS) are available all the time. The courses are unique and require attention and hard work. Online quizzes and interactive exercises help students feel like one on one tutoring. Peer grading helps students know their performances.
The good thing about online learning is that I can easily interact with my peers, other fellow students all over the world. It’s like one world global classroom. I can get instant feedbacks, badges and energy points which keep me motivated. As we’re living in the 21st century, Internet is becoming a beacon of change. The world is becoming more global and Its Important to embrace the change.
My message to the youth is that do not be hopeless, look for opportunities and make online learning apart of your life. As Brian Herbert says, “The capacity to learn is a gift, the ability to learn is a skill but the willingness to learn is a choice”.
I wish you all the best.
The contributor is a BS (Hons) student at Karakoram International University Gilgit.
