Looking for something new to do on the boat for either pure enjoyment or professional enhancement? Internet-based training options are available in virtually every field — from computer technical certifications to law and other professional degree programs. Many of these programs are either certified or accredited — and an online course-taking option ideally fits those who are constantly on the move.
By Mary E. Shacklett
Published: December, 2006
Online course work originally started in the defense industry as computer-based training in the 1970’s. Since then, online training has soared. As long as you have wireless Internet access and you can tie into a wireless hub (available in most port areas), you can take classes at any time.
If you want to pursue online education to build your professional credentials, your employer may offer a training reimbursement plan to help defer costs. Even if your employer doesn’t have such a program, you will find online training to be a viable and a highly affordable alternative that will assist you in honing your technical and management skills. It will also make you more marketable to employers.
Online training – on the boat and elsewhere – delivers great benefits. However, there are several guidelines that students should consider, because the online training environment is unique and decidedly different from traditional classroom learning.
For instance, in many cases you are your own proctor in the online environment. There is no physical instructor or classroom to motivate your learning or help you keep up with the class. If you are a person who needs that extra push to accomplish your studies, take stock of yourself before you enroll to make sure that you have the necessary self-discipline and perseverance to succeed in online learning. You will often have to set a pace for yourself in your studies, although the training school will define the exams and exam schedules.
Before enrolling in an online training course, communicate with the school and/or the course instructor. Making these initial contacts before enrolling is very important. It ensures that you are taking the best course of action for the skills that you wish to acquire, and it allows you to see what kind of rapport you will be able to establish with those administering or giving the course. You also want to know that someone will be there when course questions come up.
Know upfront what your end training objective is. The more you can pin-point what it is you want to get out of the course, the more successful you will be.
Establish a private work area where you can concentrate on your studies without interruption, whether it is on your boat or elsewhere. Children, television, etc., can all interfere with concentration.
Gain family commitment before you start. If everyone in your immediate home environment knows about the course and the study requirements, they are better able to help you achieve the in-home (or in-boat) learning environment that fosters success in online courses.
Now more than ever, people are looking for flexible education options that they can take with them on the road and on the water. Wireless laptops and Internet courses help to make it happen.
Mary E. Shacklett is President of Transworld Data, a marketing and technology practice specializing in marketing, public relations and product management for technology companies and organizations. Mary is listed in Who’s Who Worldwide and Who’s Who in the Computer Industry. She may be reached at (360) 956-9536 or TWD_Transworld@msn.com.
