The blessings of internet: You can study at Global top universities for free! 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 to abroad universities 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 Pakistan where quality education is quite expansive. I’m from middle class family. I was attending a session on “Importance of internet” by Aga Khan Education Services (AKES). I was informed about many educational websites like edX, coursera, udacity, khan academy, google for education etc. I was stunned and exited. Before that I only knew about Facebook and twitter. Since then my life has changed. I made account on these learning websites and benefited a lot from it.
Now days along with my University education 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. These websites provide courses from excellent universities on various subjects like Science, Mathematics, Arts and Humanities, World History, personal development and many more.
Khan Academy improved my Mathematic 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 and Rice University. 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 stuffs. You tube is a virtual hub where I improved my English skills.
Distance learning is playing a key role in education. 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.
By Israr Karim
Bs(hons) Chemistry Karakoram International University Gilgit Baltistan