By Accountext Digitisation4 big benefits of studying AAT by self-study1 Aug 2023 This content is brought to you by Accountext.Education has undergone a significant transformation in the digital age, making it more accessible and flexible than ever before.The days of the educational experience being restricted to just a classroom environment have been over for some time with students studying an AAT qualification via either a traditional college course, a tutor-supported distance learning course, or studying independently by using ‘self-study’ AAT course material.We sat down with Steven Nash, Head of Marketing at Accountext, an AAT study resource provider for both colleges and self-study students, to discuss self-study and find out more about the benefits and challenges.1. Flexibility and Convenience – Study When You WantOne of the primary advantages of self-study for AAT is flexibility.Unlike traditional classroom-based learning, self-study allows students to set their own pace and tailor their learning schedule to fit their individual needs. There are no fixed timetables or rigid deadlines, allowing learners to balance their studies alongside work, family commitments, or other personal obligations. This flexibility ensures that students can pursue their AAT qualification without sacrificing their existing responsibilities.Moreover, self-study eliminates the need for commuting to a physical location, saving valuable time and money. By using the mixture of printed study books and online materials, students can log into the Accountext self-study materials and study from the comfort of their homes, libraries, or any place with an internet connection, allowing for a convenient and adaptable learning experience.But this flexibility is not without its challenges. In the absence of the structure provided by a traditional classroom setting, some individuals may find it challenging to stay focused and motivated.To overcome this challenge, it is vital to create a study plan with clear goals and deadlines. By breaking the material down into manageable chunks and setting specific milestones, a student can create a sense of structure and their roadmap for AAT success.2. A Cost-Effective Way to Study AATAnother compelling benefit of self-study for AAT is its cost-effectiveness. Traditional classroom-based courses tend to come with tuition costs and additional expenses for commuting. And a tutor-supported distance learning course still incurs costs that some may prefer to avoid. By opting for an AAT self-study course, students can significantly reduce these financial burdens.The Accountext AAT self-study package is specifically designed to deliver an effective learning journey at an attractive price point.Steven Nash, said: “We saw great results from students who were using our study materials without ever contacting their tutor. And in a cost-of-living crisis, our self-study package which includes our study books, videos, and online assessments and mock exams – is an increasingly attractive option for students.”But a significant cost reduction isn’t the only financial-related benefit of self-study. The flexibility of self-study enables students to continue working while pursuing their AAT qualification. This allows them to maintain a stable income and avoid the financial strain of leaving a job to attend full-time classes.3. Improve Your Time Management SkillsOne of the additional benefits of the self-study route is how in overcoming the challenge of staying focused, students develop much stronger time management skills.Without the structure of a physical classroom or fixed study hours, learners must take responsibility for organizing their study time effectively. This self-discipline fosters invaluable skills that extend beyond the realm of accounting. Students develop the ability to prioritize tasks, manage deadlines, and allocate time efficiently – all of which are highly sought-after skills in the professional world.Employers value candidates who can demonstrate self-motivation, discipline, and effective time management, all of which are inherent in the self-study approach.4. Personalise Your Learning ExperienceSelf-study for AAT offers a personalised learning experience tailored to the needs of individual students. Unlike traditional classrooms, where lessons are delivered to a large group of learners, self-study allows individuals to focus on their specific areas of weakness or interest. Students can spend more time on challenging topics, revisiting them until they fully comprehend the material.SummaryThe benefits of studying AAT through self-study can be vast and encompass flexibility, convenience, cost-effectiveness, enhanced time management skills, and personalized learning experiences. But it’s important to acknowledge the importance of maintaining your motivation and creating a study plan that keeps you on track. Students who are able to do this are ideally suited to this cost-effective way to invest in their careers and join the world of finance.Accountext produces AAT study material that is used by self-study students, in college classrooms, and by private training providers.This content is brought to you by Accountext. Accountext offer: study books & question banks; e-learning with videos; e-assessment with auto-marking; powerful reporting and student progress tracking.