I’m taking the BPI Building Analyst & Envelope COMBO Training & Certification. It’s an online course and at first I was really delaying getting started. I’m busy in my everyday life between work and home, and my downtime already seems so limited. So I was putting it off because of time, but also – I didn’t want to take an online course. I’ve spent much of my career as a trainer – and all of my training was in the classroom. I just didn’t see how online instruction would keep my attention. But I’m required to take this course for my work, so I had no choice but to get started.
Now, after completing a few modules, I can honestly admit that I was wrong. The online instruction is much better than I expected. In fact, so far I think I may like it even more so than classroom, for a few reasons.
For starters, the lessons are taught by an instructor through a series of videos. The instructor, Dallas Jones, has a great energy and keeps the information interesting. The modules are short, so your attention doesn’t have a chance to wane. I’ve made it through several modules in one sitting.
And for me, this is an entirely new subject; I have no background in Building Science – with the video I can go back and listen to something as many times as I need. Instead of being that person who continually raises their hand in class and holds everyone back – now I can be that person without anyone knowing. J This also helps when you’re taking notes, you don’t miss anything. There’s no, “what did he say?” I found myself rewinding to review information so I knew I understood it completely. I’d never thought about this before I started the course, but now I really appreciate it.
The practice tests at the end of each module help me gauge what I know and what I need to work on. The supplemental information is really helpful and the program is very easy to use. Before I tried the online course I was very skeptical, but now I’m a believer! I’d recommend it to anyone. It makes learning so easy and I can do the classes in my sweat pants with no make-up on – who doesn’t love that?
OK, so I’ve told you how much I like the online aspect of the class – keep your fingers crossed for me as I make my way through course!
Talk to you soon ~ Kelly