QMYOU Alumni Magazine Issue 84 | Page 8

Online learning @ QMU R ECENT YEARS HAVE seen an explosion of interest in online learning. Many universities around the world are launching online courses in response to technological changes and demand from students. These courses offer greater flexibility, accessibility, and choice compared with more traditional courses. Learners are able to balance their competing professional and family responsibilities whilst studying. QMU aims to have 20% of its courses online by 2025. But, if online learning is the future, what does that future look like? What is online learning? Online learning is a form of distance learning which is made available on the internet. Recent advances in technology have revolutionised the student experience of studying at a distance. Gone are the days of isolated self-study and workbooks. Now, students can interact online with fellow learners and tutors, through online discussions, seminars and group work. Videos, podcasts, online chat, quizzes, case studies and games provide an engaging, multi-media student experience. Creati