According to a New York Times report, a survey carried out over 12 years for the US Department of Education found a modest but statistically meaningful difference in performance by online learners over classroom learners. And this was mostly based on studies done in colleges and adult continuing education programmes, from medical to military training.

Online learning is hardly likely to replace classroom learning any time soon, but this is a pointer to its possibilities for a whole lot of us who want learning of one kind or another, but can’t spare the time or cover long distances to get it.

The report also confirms that online learning today is no longer what it used to be: little more than web-based versions of the traditional correspondence course. Today, online learning – if you have the necessary equipment and connectivity – is almost like “being there”, what with web-based video, instant messaging and tools for collaborative exercises and exchanges. There is a whole lot of text matter and references available from the online learning provider. Online learning actually has the potential to provide a far more personalized learning experience than teachers can provide to individual students in the classroom.

As a medium of continuing education for young adults already in the workforce, online learning has been highly effective universally. In Australia, major corporations and thousands of individuals use the Queensland based Accredited Online Training (AOT), the country’s top online training organization. Nationally recognized, with courses covering a whole range of subjects, it is independently audited by Government and industry to ensure the highest standards of excellence. Best of all, it is accessible everywhere in the world!

AOT offers online learning in many subjects such as human resources management, Certificate III Business Administration courses, Certificate IV in Training and Assessment, project management courses, IT, occupational health and safety, industrial safety and many more.

Visit http://www.aot.edu.au today for added information.