Learning without limits

From a supplementary option, online learning has become a popular method of education, reaching millions of learners of all ages and fields. Learners can be completely proactive in arranging their space and time; choosing content and adjusting their pace to suit themselves. Online learning is expanding the doors to knowledge in more flexible, diverse, and practical ways than ever before.

Like many active students in Lao Cai, Nguyen Bao Nhi, from Phuc Son residential area, Yen Bai ward, currently a 7th-grade student at Nguyen Du Secondary School (Yen Bai ward), has proactively utilized online learning platforms to improve her academic results. Thanks to engaging video lectures, rich interactive exercises, and an effective online review system, Bao Nhi has not only solidified her knowledge in Natural Sciences and English, but also gained more confidence in her preparation for tests and important exams.

Ms. Le Thi Hau, Bao Nhi's mother, shared: "I carefully researched and purchased a Natural Science course from a reputable center for my child to study natural science and English. I observed that the online lectures were very thorough, with many exercises and practice tests to help my child review effectively."

Bao Nhi during an online class with her teacher.

Besides choosing to study academic subjects online and prepare for foreign language certifications, many young people also choose to learn artistic subjects or soft skills online. Nguyen Hai Dang, from residential group No. 4 Yen Ninh, Yen Bai ward, has just completed a basic guitar course online.

Hai Dang shared: “ I really enjoy playing guitar, but my school schedule is quite packed, so I can't attend in-person classes. After doing some research, I registered for an online course and found it effective. The class schedule is flexible, and all the materials and exercises are available in the group. Every time I complete an assignment, the teacher reviews it, gives detailed feedback, and sends private messages for further guidance. As a result, I'm improving quickly and will continue with the advanced course!”

Many young people today choose online learning to develop soft skills such as communication, presentation, and teamwork, preparing them for the future. For professionals and working adults, this format allows them to easily update their professional knowledge even when busy, making the most of their evenings and weekends to take courses on management, project management, IT, or specialized foreign languages.

Ms. Nguyen Thi Lan, from Hong Yen neighborhood, Yen Bai ward, shared: “Administrative work takes up most of my daytime hours, but through online courses on project management and English in the evenings, I can immediately apply what I've learned to drafting documents and communicating with partners. This learning format suits my schedule very well.”

In addition, many people seek out practical courses, such as cooking, bartending, and online fitness classes, to improve their quality of life or develop a side hustle.

Nguyen Giang, a coffee shop employee, took online barista courses to expand his professional skills. Giang shared: “Previously, I only learned the traditional way, but thanks to participating in online barista courses with video tutorials and feedback from instructors, my skills improved rapidly. Now, my shop regularly updates its menu with new items and receives more orders.”

Ms. Tran Nhung, a teacher in Ban Lau commune, loves yoga but, lacking in-person classes where she lives, she chose to learn and practice online. Ms. Nhung shared: “The instructor provided very dedicated guidance, sending additional videos for self-practice at home. During online classes via Zoom, the instructor carefully observed each movement and made timely corrections.”

Nhung and many other students participated in online training sessions.

Young people in Lao Cai, with their entrepreneurial spirit and thirst for new experiences, are actively utilizing online courses. From programming, digital marketing, and graphic design to cooking, bartending, and experiential travel, these courses equip them with the skills to start their own businesses, develop homestay services, or build personal brands on digital platforms.

Mr. Ha Minh, from Minh Tan 4 residential area, Yen Bai ward, said: “I participated in online marketing and presentation courses, system development... After applying the knowledge I learned, I developed a gym system and a team of nutrition trainers in many provinces and cities in the northern region.”

Thanks to recommendations from friends, Ms. Hoang Thi Ha from Thai village, Mu Cang Chai commune, learned about online hotel and restaurant management courses. She then applied the knowledge to managing her family's homestay.

Ms. Ha shared: “Initially, I chose free courses that suited me, and only registered for paid courses if I found them suitable. Currently, I am taking a bartending course. Certainly, our family homestay will have many more new drinks on the menu.”

In recent years, investments in upgrading telecommunications infrastructure and expanding 4G/5G coverage in both urban and rural areas have made it easier for people to access online learning platforms. Along with this, digital library systems in schools and community learning centers have opened up learning opportunities for families without personal devices.

Simultaneously, online learning communities on Facebook, Zalo, and specialized forums are increasingly developing, becoming spaces for learners to share materials, exchange knowledge, and study together. Support from local authorities, organizations, and businesses is promoting many locally-relevant online training programs, such as: tourism skills courses, organic agricultural management, or conversational English for tourism service workers… Lao Cai, with its advantages in tourism, specialty agriculture, and a multicultural community, can leverage online learning to increase its competitiveness. As people's digital skills, foreign language proficiency, and professional skills improve, more opportunities will arise to develop experiential tourism, consume agricultural products, develop local services, and participate in larger value chains.

Clearly, online learning is opening up unlimited opportunities for knowledge for the people of Lao Cai. From officials and civil servants to the elderly, students, and young people, everyone is eager to improve their knowledge and explore new professions. To effectively utilize this opportunity, it is essential to invest in infrastructure, enhance digital skills, and orient learning content appropriately. Only then will lifelong learning truly become a reality, in line with the spirit of Resolution No. 57-NQ/TW of the Politburo on breakthroughs in the development of science, technology, innovation, and digital transformation in the province.

Source: https://baolaocai.vn/hoc-tap-khong-gioi-han-post886172.html