Do home learning courses count for much?

barginboyrob

I was thinking of doing this in my spare time:

http://www.homelearningcollege.com/Courses/Book-Keeping/AAT-Accounting/

Do you think employees think doing such courses are respectable or is it considered a bit rubbish

sunshinesquirrel

Hi

Not sure about it being considered rubbish or not but I enrolled in the Counselling course with the home learning college. From my own point of view, i felt that the learning materials supplied for the fee I paid were a bit rubbishy (one course book with some info in it and space to write answers, 1 pen, one bag and a couple of envelopes and a pad of paper). My biggest problem, however, was the fact that i just couldnt discipline myself to do the studying at home. Managed the first assignment ok - that was in October - havent picked up the books since!

Sorry, that doesnt really answer your question does it????

Gill

barginboyrob

haha nope, but it's a nice honest reply anyway so thanks!

cazziebo

Two points here.. maybe three!

The AAT is an accredited recognised qualification and has high credibility so will be respected by employers.

Yes, employers think very highly of self directed learning. It demonstrates discipline, motivation, commitment and time management.

Most importantly, be very careful who you study with. Some of these distance learning organisations are more interested in getting your money, than in you getting a good learning experience. Many tie you in with credit agreements which are almost impossible to get out of. (The OU estimate that one third of students do not complete a course). As sunshinesquirrel says - standard of support and materials can be very poor.

Some colleges offer distance and part time learning. Personally, I've found the OU to be great. Check out a number of providers and make your decision from there.

Good luck.

456789

As cazziebo has said the AAT is a recognised qualification and a number of accounting firms/finance dept's train their bookkeepers with it.

When I was doing my A Level's my college also offered this course and the same teachers who did the A Level Accounting course taught it. I would check with your local college to see if they do it - because then you will have better contact with your teachers, and be able to meet other people who are doing the same course. Plus if their are any problems you will be able to sort them out easier than with a distance learning company.

Have a look at http://www.aat.org.uk/ - also in the future you can progress onto professional accounting qualifications if you wish