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Online learning has made a big impact in how people educate themselves. A lot of attention is given to academic levels of online learning, but education is not always about learning dry, technical material. Sometimes the best and most rewarding educational experiences are when you learn something new that is exciting.
Maybe this new information helps your career, or maybe it has nothing to do with work at all. The key is that it enriches your life. Today, you can learn fun new things online anywhere and at any time. Here’s how.
Online learning has made a big impact in how people educate themselves. A lot of attention is given to academic levels of online learning, but education is not always about learning dry, technical material. Sometimes the best and most rewarding educational experiences are when you learn something new that is exciting. Maybe this new information helps your career, or maybe it has nothing to do with work at all. The key is that it enriches your life. Today, you can learn fun new things online anywhere and at any time. Here’s how.
Determine where your interests lie
One of the greatest benefits of online learning is its accessibility. This not only makes learning easy, it also encourages people to try things that they might not have tried if they had to travel someplace or enroll in a traditional class. With online learning you can see what you like. Sometimes you can even try before you buy, by taking an introductory course. There are also countless free online portals for learning. From YouTube videos to informative websites, you can research different topics and test the waters before you commit to additional courses.
Examples of fun online learning include:
Languages. Although learning a new language can seem like schoolwork, if you are interested in a new language or culture, you can learn it at your own pace.
Musical instruments. Have you ever dreamed of playing guitar, but didn’t believe you had the time for traditional lessons? There are numerous YouTube channels aimed directly at beginning guitar and other popular instruments. Many of these channels offer free initial lessons as a way to encourage you to enroll in a paid lesson, but some apps, such as Fender Play provide subscription-based lessons.
Art. From painting to drawing, visual arts are classic and popular choices for instruction. Online, you can release your inhibitions and create whatever you want without worrying about being judged on your work. Although critique is an important part of becoming an artist, it may also deter some from getting involved in art for fun.
Crafts. Beyond fine arts, there are numerous craft learning opportunities online. Make gifts for your friends, make clothing for yourself, or learn to decorate your home.
Dancing. Physical activity can also be taught through an online format. YouTube is filled with dance instruction videos. This physical component is good not only for curious learners, but also for those who may be out of shape and looking for healthy activity. Seniors or those who are in addiction recovery can benefit from online dance instruction, too. Online learning can be the cornerstone of healthy lifestyles, as they only require turning on a computer. One of the best benefits of dancing is that you can do it in the privacy of your own home (provided you have the space) or in a classroom setting, which can help you socialize. It’s also a great way to get in shape and learn about your own body’s abilities and limits in a healthy way.
Fun online learning can also be done with friends. Any of the above examples can work for a group of people at one site or by remote viewing. Some apps have begun allowing group video watching as a social component of online learning. These include Facebook’s Watchparty, and sync video and Togethertube, which allow for watching YouTube videos remotely with your friends.
From simple intractable tutorials to more detailed lessons, online opportunities exist for audience engagement. Open up your computer, experiment with a new hobby and get your friends involved for a social learning experience.
Guest Blogger: Julie Morris
