What is digital learning?

And what should you expect from online courses?

The College of LAS offers diverse pathways for inquisitive learners eager to embark on a rewarding yet flexible educational journey. Through digital learning technologies, students can design a work-life-study balance that aligns with their unique academic goals.

But what does digital learning encompass at the university level, and is it right for you? In this guide, we’ll investigate digital schooling, uncover the various types of classes available, and explore the benefits you can expect when you take online courses with the College of Liberal Arts & Sciences at the University of Illinois.

Students in the LAS HubWhat is digital learning?

The official digital learning definition is an umbrella term that encompasses any form of study or instructional practice that utilizes technology, tools, and remote teaching methods. Digital learning courses can vary in structure, workload, and time commitment, offering numerous options for those eager to explore.

Digital learning environments break down barriers to education by removing rigid schedules and pacing of traditional classrooms. Students engage in digital instruction through online lectures, allowing them to manage their study time effectively and find a balance between coursework and personal commitments. This approach is particularly beneficial for those with unique scheduling needs.

Types of digital learning programs

The College of Liberal Arts & Sciences offers a diverse array of digital learning programs to suit varying student needs. Our online courses generally fall into two main categories: fully online and hybrid.

Fully online courses provide a comprehensive learning experience entirely through digital platforms. Students access lectures, participate in interactive sessions, submit assignments, engage in virtual collaborations, and receive individual progress reviews through digital learning systems, including Canvas. If you need the ability to study from anywhere, they can be an ideal format.

However, digital learning in education isn't always a fully remote experience. Hybrid models are popular with students looking to combine traditional classroom learning with the flexibility of digital components. This blended approach typically includes face-to-face, on-campus sessions supplemented by self-paced online study materials, scheduled activities like webinars and online study groups, and access to course community discussion forums. If you would like to interact directly with students and your professor but need a little additional flexibility, hybrid courses are a great option!

Benefits of digital learning

There are many benefits of digital learning programs for students who, for various reasons, find traditional learning environments unsuitable for their needs. Here are just a few ways that digital learning courses can fuel your academic aspirations.

A student points to a screenEnhanced accessibility and learning environment flexibility

One of the most significant advantages of digital learning is the ability to break down geographical and time zone barriers. Online courses add flexibility so you can study at times that accommodate work, family commitments, and other responsibilities—removing stress and helping you maintain focus and work toward your goals.

Indeed, one of the most appealing aspects of digital learning is the additional flexibility in your learning environment. Whether you prefer to learn at home, in a public space, or while traveling, the ability to study on your own terms allows you to choose a study space best suited to your individual needs. For example, some students prefer the distraction-free environment of a library or home setup, whereas others thrive in a more dynamic setting like a café or co-working space.

Personalized learning experiences

Digital courses typically allow for a more tailored learning experience, enabling you to progress at your own pace and focus on specific areas of interest. Unlike traditional classroom settings where the professor sets the pace, many digital learning courses provide the flexibility to revisit materials, take additional time on challenging concepts, and accelerate through topics you’ve already established a base knowledge of or find easy to understand.

Real-time feedback and continuous assessment

The best online, remote, and hybrid courses include access to a comprehensive digital learning system with features that immediately confirm submissions, timely feedback on quizzes and assignments, and an at-a-glance overview of remaining topics. Continuous assessment is a core component, which can help ensure you stay engaged and on track, and efficient online feedback mechanisms help you quickly identify areas for improvement.

Access to a Wealth of Resources

Digital learning gives you access to many resources to support your academic experience. For example, when you study at the University of Illinois, you get comprehensive access to various online libraries, academic journals, multimedia content, webinars, interactive simulations, and more. These resources can elevate your learning experience and help you better understand the materials you're studying.

Development of digital literacy skills

Digital learning doesn’t just impart subject-specific knowledge. It also helps you develop invaluable digital literacy skills for the modern workplace. By engaging with various digital tools and platforms, you’ll become adept at navigating online environments, utilizing software applications, and leveraging digital resources for research and collaboration. This proficiency and comfort level is essential across many modern-day professions, from marketing and finance to healthcare and education.

Students looking at a screenCollaboration and networking opportunities

Digital learning programs provide unparalleled opportunities to connect and collaborate. Online forums, discussion boards, and group projects enable you to bond with peers from various backgrounds and locations. These interactions foster a diverse and inclusive learning community and present valuable networking opportunities, helping you build professional relationships that expand your career prospects.

What to expect with digital learning

Now that you know the benefits of digital learning, it’s time to look at some factors that make the College of Liberal Arts & Sciences a fantastic choice. Here’s an overview of what you can expect when you study at Illinois:

  • Extensive course menu – Whether you are an undergraduate or graduate student, you’ll have access to nearly 2,000 online course sections available for academic credit.
  • A proven modality – Millions of learners enroll in one or more of the university's 190+ massive open online courses (MOOCs) each year.
  • Experience and acumen – The University of Illinois is a renowned leader in digital schooling. We’ve been teaching fully online courses since 1995 and were the first university in the world to offer a MOOC-based degree with Coursera!
  • Reputation – Illinois has a bunch of accredited online master's degrees, from Health Communication to Translation and Interpreting. The university's Master’s in Library and Information Science is ranked number one in the U.S.
  • High-quality digital instruction – Our faculty are among the most accomplished scholars in the world, and over 94% of our students rate their courses as good or excellent.
  • A truly international and inclusive classroom – Our online degree programs attract students worldwide, fostering a diverse learning environment. This global network enhances your educational experience by providing unique perspectives and real-time interactions.
  • Learner-friendly pacing and scheduling – Stackable programs lead to full certificates and degrees on a timescale that suits your unique learning needs.
  • Academic excellence – Online degree seekers earn the same degree as campus-based students.

Get your degree at Illinois

The College of Liberal Arts & Sciences understands the unique needs, wants, and requirements of today’s students, and we strive to lead the way in innovative higher education modalities that deliver exceptional results. So, when you embark on a digital learning journey with us, you’ll join a community dedicated to academic excellence with all the flexibility, accessibility, and personalized support you need to thrive.

Check out our extensive list of liberal arts and sciences majors, and submit your application to join the LAS family today!