The Benefits and Disadvantages Of Online Certification Training

Online certification training helps you achieve your professional goals and increase your chances of advancement in a most affordable and convenient manner. This is very suitable if you have a busy schedule or find it difficult to attend a regular class. Various courses are offered such as Linux and Java certification programs, as well as other IT subjects that you can study at home and at your own speed.

The number of universities, colleges, and internet learning programs that provide online certification training are steadily increasing to cope with the growing demand for IT skills in the industry.

Online certification training, however, is not for everyone. Students who excel in a classroom environment may not do as well in distance learning. There are no live interactions between the student and the instructor. You will have to set-up your own schedules and plans for your subjects. You will have to create your targets and discipline yourself to meet those goals.

Furthermore, online certification training requires you to have some expertise in operating a computer, surfing and communicating via the internet. You must also have knowledge of using word processing programs, spread sheets and database software. People who succeed in these training programs are those who have greater focus and are able to absorb information easily. Distance learning involves reading a lot of modules and materials, which is the primary mode of instruction. If you are easily distracted, then you should seriously consider taking the required course in a regular school with classrooms and instructors.

The other disadvantage to taking distance courses is the fact that you will have to research on your own through the internet any additional data needed. You will have to wait for a response from your online instructor, if you have one, unlike in a classroom where you can just raise your hand and a question is quickly answered. Also, you won't have the benefit of study groups and class discussions on IT subjects that you would like to pursue.

Fortunately, online certification training gives you a choice between taking instructor-led modules with fixed schedules and deadlines for submission of assignments and worksheets, and enrolling on a progressive mode of learning. The former program provides you guidance and support from an online instructor. The latter lets you decide which subjects to take and finish them at the pace you are most comfortable at. Either program can be advantageous depending on your learning habits or how you approach your studies.

Taking instructor-led online certification training gives you the advantage of having a schedule and being able to finish the course on a predetermined time. If you think you are capable of meeting set deadlines and doing the research by yourself, then you will succeed in this type of program. There are some students though who prefer a less stressful mode of educating themselves and opt for setting their own pace. If you are not sure of your schedule and would like to only study when you can, then this type of program is best for you.

One well-known provider of online Linux courses in the internet is Red Hat, Inc. They are the foremost supplier of Linux Operating Systems and being certified by them is a plus factor on your resume. They offer various online certifications training as well as regular classes you can attend. Visiting their site will give you an idea how much these courses will cost you, and the difference in the rates of both types of learning systems. You will find more tips and advice on Linux certification training at http://www.prepareforlinuxcertification.com/

Although getting your certificate through online training sounds more appealing, it cannot replace the knowledge and skills you can acquire through hands-on training. When it comes to IT functions and solutions, any experience derived from concrete work and simulations in a classroom increases your proficiency in dealing with actual problems. Thus, Red Hat and Novell Linux certification tests include both theoretical and practical applications.

As a way to grasp IT theory, online certification training certainly has its place, but should really be accompanied by some sort of hands-on IT experience if it is to give you the best chance of qualifying as a certified IT professional.