As we march towards the end of the year (thank goodness), many career changers are trying to identify which courses to pursue to help jump start their new careers in 2021. With the onset of the pandemic, education and training provision has moved online in a major way. Providers who previously offered face to face training are now making many of their courses accessible online.
Online courses have a range of benefits: they can be more affordable, flexible and act as a gateway to new job roles or sectors. But with so many course providers advertising on the internet and social media, how can you know who the reputable providers are? Read on to find out the 5 Things To Look Out For When Choosing A Course Provider.
Accreditation
Looking for an accredited course provider is an important first step. Why? Accreditation means that the training provider is operating at a professional standard and has satisfied the admission criteria of the awarding body. Popular accreditations you should look out for include the CPD Standards Office, The Open and Distance Learning Quality Council and the European Association for Distance Learning. Alternatively, a course might be accredited by a software provider such as Microsoft or a chartered industry body. A course provider without accreditation is not necessarily a no-go just make sure you ask as many questions as possible about all their processes before signing on the dotted line.
Tutor support
While some learners will find it easy to work independently to complete assignments it will be essential for others to engage with their tutors between virtual lessons to ask questions or seek clarity on their assignments. This can be done in different ways, live chat services, email, or virtual meetings. Find out how tutors provide support in between lessons before selecting your training provider.
Qualification
Obtaining a qualification will not be for everyone, it may be that there is not a relevant one or it is simply not required to secure your desired role. But when deciding which course to pursue, do your research. Is there a specific qualification you should obtain, and will this course help you get it or is the course a stepping stone to that certification? And if you do not know the answer to these questions, just ask. Any competent provider should be able to advise you about the range of relevant qualifications, whether they offer them or not.
Flexibility
Not all providers operate in the same way. Some will want you to login in to live virtual lessons while others will let you download written lessons, videos, and assignments at your convenience. Similarly, some providers offer courses with no end date allowing learners to work at their own pace, in contrast other organisations will only make lessons and support materials available to students for limited time. Make sure you choose a training company that provides teaching in an accessible way that suits your lifestyle and your plans.
Careers Service
Once you have completed your course you may need help to target jobs using your new skills or qualification. Does your prospective training provider offer a career advice service? Do they have links with industry employers and relevant recruitment agencies? As a career changer it is essential that you actively develop your knowledge of the sector or role that you want to work in, gaining careers advice is an essential first step.
Use these tips to find the right course for you to start 2021. Good luck!
