Continue reading to explore the differences between law and ethics, their overlap, and how to navigate situations where what is legal may feel deeply wrong, or vice versa.

What is law?

Law is a formal set of rules established by a governing authority. It is codified in statutes and enforced through institutions like courts, the police, and regulatory agencies. Laws define what is permissible, what is forbidden, and what penalties apply for violations.¹

For example, antitrust laws prohibit unfair market competition and data protection laws regulate how organizations collect and use personal data.

While science gives us “universal laws” like gravity, most rules in the social and legal sense are jurisdiction-specific. Legal systems vary by territory, and what’s lawful in one nation may be criminalized in another. For example:

• Cannabis possession is legal in Canada and several U.S. states, but punishable by prison sentences in Japan.^2,3
• Freedom of speech is constitutionally protected in the U.S. but restricted in China, where online expression is closely monitored.^4,5 
• In South Africa, labor laws prohibit employers from laying off employees (also called ‘retrenchment’) without a period of consultation and fair severance packages.⁶ In the United States, severance is not required by law.⁷

What is ethics?

Ethics is the branch of philosophy concerned with what is right and wrong, good and bad. It deals with fundamental issues of practical decision-making, especially the standards by which human actions are judged.⁸ They derive from cultural norms, philosophies, personal and professional values, religious beliefs, and social consensus. Ethics guides us in what ought to be done, not merely what is legally required.

Professions often formalize ethics via codes of conduct: medical ethics, legal ethics, and engineering ethics. Individuals can also develop ethical frameworks from their values, for fairness, responsibility, honesty, welfare, etc.

Like law, ethics is not universal, and what looks honorable in one place may appear questionable in another. For example:

• In Japan, silence during a meeting may be seen as respectful and appropriate, whereas in other cultures, the same silence could be perceived as evasive or unprofessional.
• Gift-giving in business negotiations, for example, is routine in many parts of Asia and the Middle East. In the U.S. and much of Europe, it may raise eyebrows or compliance red flags.
• In the Netherlands and Belgium, assisted dying is framed as a compassionate choice tied to personal autonomy. In many other countries, it is condemned as a violation of the sanctity of life and remains criminalized.

Ethics is heavily context-dependent, which means cross-cultural collaboration is as much about navigating moral landscapes as legal ones.

Comparing law vs. ethics

For professionals, leaders, and organizations, understanding the differences between ethics and law can shape how decisions are made when the rulebook runs out.

Similarities between law and ethics

Law and ethics intersect in meaningful ways — many legal systems draw heavily on prevailing ethical norms. Anti-discrimination laws, for example, stem from widely accepted ethical principles of fairness, equality, and human dignity.

The U.S. Civil Rights Act of 1964 was born from an ethical demand for justice, later codified into law. Similarly, international human rights treaties reflect ethical ideals that gained broad global acceptance before being embedded in binding legal frameworks.

Professional life can also illustrate this overlap. Businesses that proactively adopt high standards for sustainability and corporate social responsibility are often better prepared when governments later mandate those standards.⁹ Other examples include:

• Lawyers must follow both legal requirements and ethical codes, such as confidentiality and avoiding conflicts of interest.
• In medicine, patient consent is an ethical necessity and a legal requirement.
• Most countries require companies to meet basic reporting standards by law, but boards are also expected to act in line with ethical duties of transparency and accountability to stakeholders.

Think about a time in your own career when your organization used a code of ethics or guiding principles. Were any of them reinforced by the law in your area?

Differences between law and ethics

Some of the most complex societal dilemmas arise when legality and morality move in opposite directions.

Legal, but unethical

There are many practices that remain within the bounds of law yet pose ethical dilemmas. For instance, corporations exploiting tax loopholes may stay on the right side of the law, but face criticism for shirking fairness. When companies frequently operate in “legal but morally reprehensible ways,” they can erode public trust and legitimacy long term.¹⁰

Certain marketing practices might comply with technical regulations while misleading consumers, such as presenting health claims without sufficient scientific backing.

Legislation is crafted by people, and people bring with them competing interests: political agendas, economic priorities, and the influence of powerful lobby groups. This means some laws protect vested interests more than moral ideals. 

Ethical, but illegal

Sometimes, doing the morally right thing can breach existing laws. Whistleblowers in restrictive jurisdictions often face legal consequences for exposing corruption or human rights abuses, although their actions may be widely regarded as ethically justified. 

One example is whistleblower Edward Snowden, whose disclosure of mass surveillance programs was framed as a public service by some observers, but remains criminal under U.S. law.¹¹

Civil disobedience movements also illustrate this tension. From Mahatma Gandhi’s Salt March against colonial tax laws to Martin Luther King Jr.’s leadership in the U.S. civil rights movement, acts of protest that were unlawful were also turning points toward social progress. 

Has there ever been a time in your career where the work you were being asked to do posed an ethical dilemma? How did you move forward?

Ethics vs. law in technology and AI

Technology exposes some of the biggest gaps between ethics and the law. For example, artificial intelligence is transforming industries faster than regulators can respond. 

The European Union’s AI Act imposes tiered obligations on high-risk AI systems, but is not fully applicable until 2026.¹² Meanwhile, ethical concerns around bias in algorithms, the opacity of decision-making, and privacy risks are being raised everyday.

Case study: Facial recognition

While legal in many jurisdictions, the use of facial recognition by law enforcement is criticized as unethical due to racial bias and surveillance risks. In 2020, IBM, Amazon, and Microsoft all paused or restricted sales of their facial recognition technology to police, citing ethical concerns before comprehensive legislation existed.¹³

Decision frameworks for professionals

When law and ethics are in conflict, individuals and organizations need structured ways to make sound decisions. Several frameworks are commonly used:

• Professional codes of conduct: Many industries provide explicit guidance (e.g., the American Medical Association’s Code of Medical Ethics, or the CFA Institute’s Standards of Professional Conduct in finance). These serve as anchors when law is silent or ambiguous.

• The utilitarian approach: Rooted in classical philosophy, this framework asks which decision will produce the greatest good for the greatest number. While far from perfect, it helps weigh broader social consequences, especially in public health policy or corporate sustainability.

• The rights-based approach: This perspective emphasizes respect for fundamental rights, such as privacy, dignity, and freedom of expression, regardless of outcomes. For example, respecting user privacy may limit a company’s profit opportunities, but it aligns with both ethical obligations and evolving legal standards.

Applying such frameworks strengthens both decision-making and trust. A report by LRN, an ethics and compliance education company, found that firms with strong ethics outperforms those with weaker cultures by 50%.¹⁴

The role of education and lifelong learning

New technologies, global crises, and cultural change reshape what societies expect and what regulators eventually require. Staying ahead of this curve means ongoing education, instead of just relying on intuition. Those actively studying ethical frameworks, legal developments, and cross-cultural perspectives are better equipped to handle complexity and make decisions that endure.

Online courses in business strategy, digital transformation, and leadership often integrate both ethical reasoning and legal literacy. For example, online sustainability courses cover regulatory requirements and the anticipation of emerging ethical expectations around environmental impact. Online law short courses can provide learners with a foundation in the legal and regulatory frameworks in their country or industry.

THE LONDON SCHOOL OF ECONOMICS AND POLITICAL SCIENCE (LSE)
Ethics of AI

CAMBRIDGE CISL
Communicating for Influence and Impact

Saïd Business School, University of Oxford
Oxford Executive Leadership Programme

THE LONDON SCHOOL OF ECONOMICS AND POLITICAL SCIENCE (LSE)
Public Policy Analysis

FAQs

How do ethics and law interact with each other?

Ethics and law often overlap but are not identical. Many laws originate from shared ethical principles, such as fairness or protection of life, while ethics can push beyond what the law requires. In practice, law provides enforceable rules, while ethics guide choices in areas the law does not cover. Together, they influence professional standards, corporate behavior, and societal norms.

Are ethics considered more subjective than law?

Yes. Ethics are shaped by culture, religion, philosophy, and personal values, which makes them more subjective and variable across societies. What one community sees as ethical, another may view as unethical or even corrupt.

Laws, on the other hand, are codified and enforced by recognized authorities, making them more objective within their jurisdiction. However, both ethics and law evolve as societies’ values and priorities shift.

Why is it important to understand the difference between law and ethics?

Recognizing the difference helps us traverse complex situations where legality and morality clash. A legally permissible decision may still harm trust, reputation, or stakeholders if it violates ethical standards. Conversely, ethically sound actions sometimes challenge outdated or restrictive laws. Understanding both frameworks allows individuals to act responsibly and build credibility.

The post What is the difference between ethics and law? appeared first on GetSmarter Blog.

64% of consumers believe that companies have a responsibility to solve climate and environmental issues.¹ These commitments align with broader international efforts, such as the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which call for urgent action to create a more sustainable world.

Casting a company in a green light can be profitable: Products making ESG-related claims averaged 28% cumulative growth over a five-year period, compared to 20% for products without such claims, according to a 2023 McKinsey study.²

But what happens when sustainability claims are just for show?

Companies that try to reap the benefits of seeming sustainable without making actual change are greenwashing, or misleading consumers about environmental practices to benefit their public image.

When companies exploit consumers’ desire to make environmentally responsible choices, they challenge trust and undermine genuine sustainability efforts.

What is greenwashing?

Greenwashing, also known as green marketing or green sheen, is the act of communicating misleading or false claims to make a company appear more sustainable than they are in practice.³ 

For example, a company might tout that their clothing is “sustainably produced and shipped,” but still use synthetic fibers and non-recyclable packaging, among other unsustainable choices. In this case, there is a gap between symbolic gestures, like green logos or eco-labels, and substantive, day-to-day actions.

Companies achieve this misrepresentation through methods such as press releases about green projects or sustainability task forces, rebranding products or services, and advertising materials.

Dr. Victoria Hurth, fellow at the University of Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Leadership, says greenwashing can be deliberate or come from a place of ignorance. “In either case the idea of being ‘green’ is washed out of its meaning for those receiving the message,” Hurth explained.

Examples of greenwashing

Volkswagen’s “Clean Diesel” engine

One greenwashing example is the Volkswagen “Clean Diesel” engine scandal. VW heavily marketed new low-emissions diesel technology as more environmentally friendly than other gasoline cars.

In reality, Volkswagen was fitting their vehicles with a “defeat device” that reduced emissions during emissions tests. On the road, their engines emitted nitrogen oxide pollutants up to 50 times the legal limit in the United States.⁴ 

This led to a host of regulatory fines and several false advertising lawsuits being filed against VW, which cost the company $35 billion and resulted in millions of vehicles being recalled.⁵ Five years after the scandal, the company’s stock was still valued at 35% below its previous levels.⁶

In 2025, ten years later, courts are still ruling Volkswagen liable for the defeat devices and convicting former employees of fraud.^{7, 8}

H&M conscious clothing

Clothing brand H&M faced criticism from European watchdog organisations over its “Conscious Choice” collection – marketed using environmental scorecards and claims that products were made with more sustainable materials.

A 2022 Quartz investigation found that among the scorecards claiming an item of clothing was better for the environment, more than half were no more sustainable than comparable items made by the company and its competitors.⁹

The data for the scorecards comes from an industry-metric called the Higg Index. In a notice to H&M, the Norwegian Consumer Authority labelled the data as misleading and a breach of Norway’s marketing laws.¹⁰

That same year, H&M made commitments to the Netherlands Authority for Consumers and Markets (ACM) to adjust or remove sustainability claims from their website “in order to minimise the risk of misleading practices involving sustainability claims.”¹¹

How to spot greenwashing

It might feel easier for consumers to take sustainability claims at face value. As Hurth notes, “There is an incentive not to look beyond the surface of a green message – it can be like a silent agreement that buyer and seller have to enable actions they would otherwise feel bad about.”

Exercising due diligence can help shoppers spot deception and make an informed choice. Consumers can look out for vague terms and explore the company’s mission and supply chain to find out more information. There are also certifications from trusted organisations that can help verify a company or product’s sustainability.¹²

Why should companies care about greenwashing?

As the demand for green practices increases, many companies might opt for the easy way out by using greenwashing to appear environmentally responsible. However, appearances will only get businesses so far. Governments, regulators, and stock markets are pushing forward mandatory disclosures on environmental impact.

When companies engage in greenwashing, the consequences extend beyond the PR department:

• Erodes trust: When consumers realise they’ve been misled, their trust in the company can decline. 54% of consumers say that they would stop buying from a company if they were found to have been misleading in their sustainability claims, according to KPMG research.¹³

• Legal and financial liabilities: When companies deceive consumers with false or misleading claims, they open themselves up to regulatory punishment. Fines for breaking consumer protection laws and even criminal sentencing for fraud are potential outcomes for companies.

• Undermines genuine ESG efforts: Without clear and substantiated claims, the validity of other sustainability efforts can also diminish in the eyes of consumers. For example, 76% of consumers express skepticism about “green” labels on products.¹⁴ False claims water down the validity of genuine ones.

How to avoid greenwashing at your company

2 out of 3 consumers doubt that companies are genuinely committed to sustainability.¹⁵ How can you help change that in your own organisation?

• Use clear, specific language. Use precise language when making environmental claims and set realistic goals for future progress.

• Act first, share later. Prioritise progress over marketing those ambitions to customers. When companies make progress towards meaningful ESG goals, the PR can be more specific, data-driven, and confident.

• Track goals publicly. Commit to keeping your customers updated on your progress over time. One example is Microsoft’s Environmental Sustainability Report — detailed transparency can boost trust in your organisation.¹⁶

“As executives and citizens, we all have a role to play in directing, overseeing and accounting for investment that works for the challenges we face in reality,” Hurth said.

Professionals of all levels – not only those in leadership positions – need to take on the challenge of driving meaningful, sustainable change. To achieve this, workers can upskill with online sustainability courses.

The Business Sustainability Management online short course from the University of Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Leadership is geared towards working professionals who want to strengthen corporate social responsibility efforts and implement sustainability in their organisation. Over eight weeks, you’ll learn to develop and motivate an action plan for sustainable business practices and consider corporate sustainability in your organisation – affecting real change, not just greenwashing.

Deepen your knowledge of organisational sustainability with an online course.

CAMBRIDGE CISL
Business Sustainability Management online short course

FAQs

What is greenwashing in simple terms?

Greenwashing is when companies, either intentionally or unintentionally, make misleading or false marketing claims about their sustainability efforts or the environmental impact of a product.

Is greenwashing illegal?

Greenwashing tends to fall under consumer protection laws around unfair or deceptive marketing, which vary by country. For example, in the U.K., the Competition and Markets Authority oversees the “Green Claims Code” — guidelines that help businesses meet legal obligations when making environmental claims.¹⁷ In the United States, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has a similar perspective, called “Green Guides.”¹⁸

What is an example of greenwashing?

One example of greenwashing is when companies advertise a product as “100% natural” or “made from eco-friendly materials” without providing specific details or evidence that support these claims.

Why is greenwashing bad?

When companies engage in greenwashing, they can damage their reputation and relationship with customers, experience legal and financial punishments for breaking consumer protection laws, and undermine genuine sustainability efforts around the world.

The post Greenwashing: How to spot and stop false sustainability claims at your organisation appeared first on GetSmarter Blog.

Here are some frequently asked questions that past GetSmarter students have had about their certificates:

What does the certificate say?

As certificates are issued per university or industry partner, there’s no standard wording across the board. If you want to know what your specific certificate says, you can ask your Success Manager, who will provide feedback based on the course in question.

How will earning this certificate benefit my career?

The certificate you earn upon completion of a course is approved by the university or institution that presented the course and recognises the skills and key competencies you have developed. You can add this recognition to your LinkedIn profile or professional CV and it will act as further proof of your skills and knowledge to current and future employers.

How soon after completing the course does one receive a certificate?

You will receive your certificate 4-6 weeks after the course you completed closes.

*Due to additional administrative requirements, at times UCT digital certificate issuance may be delayed by several weeks/months.

Are your certificates internationally recognised?

The courses presented by the various national and international universities and industry partners in collaboration with GetSmarter are approved by those partners and certificates are industry recognised.

Will there be any ceremony to hand over the certificate to the students?

As the course is presented online with no residential component, there is no ceremony for the awarding of certificates. If you successfully complete your course as per the stipulated requirements, you will be awarded your digital certificate.

Will the certificate grant alumni status from the institution?

This is dependent on the university or industry partner the course is presented by.

Are your courses NQF rated?

The online short courses offered by GetSmarter in collaboration with top-tier universities and industry partners, result in a certificate of completion issued by the universities. In line with the regulations of the CHE (Council on Higher Education) the short courses are not aligned to, or allocated NQF levels or credits as the short courses do not lead to full qualifications.The NQF system is important from an articulation standpoint (moving from one qualification to another). The short courses are designed to offer practical, career-critical skills and not as a vehicle for articulation into qualifications.

Read related FAQ content:

Got any more questions and would like to contact GetSmarter directly?

Call us on +27 21 447 7565.

Course queries: admissions@getsmarter.com

Finance queries: billing@getsmarter.com

The post GetSmarter Certificates FAQs appeared first on GetSmarter Blog.

Being a chief operating officer (COO) is a highly influential role, often second-in-command to the CEO. The COO is typically responsible for overseeing the company’s daily operations, turning the CEO’s long-term vision into actionable, efficient reality.

Given the strategic nature of the position, there are many legitimate paths to the C-suite. Success hinges less on following a rigid checklist and more on gaining the right blend of experience, educational depth, and proven executive capabilities.

What does a chief operating officer do?

The COO is the chief execution executive of a company, translating the high-level business strategy into operational excellence. This executive’s responsibilities are inherently fluid, changing based on the size of the organization, the industry, and the CEO’s style.

The COO’s job is to manage the resources, personnel, and logistics of the organization to ensure all business functions run efficiently and effectively. This often involves:¹

• Collaborating with the CEO to drive organizational vision and hiring
• Translating business strategy into actionable steps and implementing organization-wide processes
• Supervising daily operations to drive productivity and cost-effectiveness
• Overseeing financial management efforts like budgeting, cost management, and resource allocation
• Driving change management, and guiding the organization through transitions

In some larger organizations, the COO position is strategically used as a training and testing ground for the next CEO. However, the role is always a pivotal one, requiring extensive experience, critical thinking, and a sharp focus on continuous improvement.

Education to become a COO

There is no single required degree to become a chief operating officer, but a solid educational foundation is a consistent prerequisite. Many COOs hold degrees in business-related fields, which suggests that what matters most is acquiring a deep understanding of business administration, management, and strategic thinking.²

Undergraduate degrees for chief operating officers

A bachelor’s degree in a field like business administration or management can provide foundational knowledge in key areas like finance, marketing, strategic planning, and project management.

For those with an early interest, a major in a field like operations management can offer a specialized base in process optimization, resource management, and supply chain logistics, which are core to the COO role.

Graduate degrees for chief operating officers

Many COOs pursue an advanced degree to deepen their knowledge, which often contributes to the strategic mindset needed at the executive level.

• Master of Business Administration (MBA): An MBA provides a broad, analytical toolkit covering finance, data analysis, strategy, and leadership. This breadth is especially valuable because a COO must oversee various departments, from human resources to manufacturing.

• Specialized master’s degrees: Programs in finance or computer science can also set a strong foundation, but offer a more focused speciality.
  • A finance background equips a leader with the knowledge to make strategic financial decisions, understand cash flow, and manage cost and risk.
  • A technical degree may be beneficial in a tech-focused or manufacturing industry, offering deep expertise in the intricacies of that sector and positioning the executive to leverage technologies.

The decision often comes down to the individual’s existing career background and the type of company they aspire to lead. A specialized master’s may build on an existing strength, while an MBA often rounds out a professional’s expertise to prepare them for an organization-wide leadership role.

The best educational route is the one that complements your existing career trajectory and builds the skills needed for the specific type of organization you aim to lead.

Upgrading your skills to become a chief operating officer

The COO role demands a powerful hybrid of analytical competency and interpersonal leadership. Some examples of important skills include:³

• Strategic planning and thinking
• Data analysis
• Financial knowledge
• Project management expertise
• People management experience
• Problem solving and resilience

Online operations courses and online leadership courses can be one way to earn some of these skills on your own terms and timeline.

COO certifications

While there is no mandatory professional certification to hold the title, executive education programs and specialized credentials can signal a high level of expertise and commitment to executive operational leadership.

CAMBRIDGE CISL
Business Sustainability Management online short course

In an era where climate change, resource scarcity, and inequality are no longer fringe issues but central business concerns, the role of a COO must evolve to encompass sustainability. The Business Sustainability Management online short course offers the strategic and operational blueprint to highlight this fit and prepare for the C-suite.

CAMBRIDGE CISL
Communicating for Influence and Impact

COOs are translators, responsible for taking the C-suite’s strategy and articulating it into measurable, actionable steps across the entire organization. The Communicating for Influence and Impact online short course can help you become a master at this kind of strategic messaging.

THE LONDON SCHOOL OF ECONOMICS AND POLITICAL SCIENCE (LSE)
MBA Essentials online certificate course

A COO’s success rests on their ability to expertly manage strategy, finance, and people — the three pillars the MBA Essentials course dissects. Learn evidence-based approaches to using financial statements as diagnostic tools, managing the supply chain, and fostering a people-first work environment.

For COOs whose role is heavily focused on a specific operational domain, technical certifications can demonstrate a commitment to industry-recognized standards and expertise.

• Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP): Offered by the Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM), this is a globally recognized credential for professionals managing end-to-end supply chain activities.⁴
• Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt: These credentials certify expertise in the Six Sigma methodology, which focuses on data-driven, problem-solving techniques to minimize defects and optimize business processes.⁵
• Program Management Professional (PgMP): Offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI), this certification is aimed at professionals who manage multiple, coordinated projects (a program) to achieve strategic objectives.⁶

A progressive career trajectory

The career path to COO is defined by a consistent, progressive accumulation of experience and a verifiable track record in operational and strategic leadership. Most successful COOs spend years rising through the ranks, demonstrating exceptional results at every management level, or are recruited for their deep history of operational excellence.

COOs come from diverse functional backgrounds, which only underscores the fluidity of the role:

• A traditional operations background provides a foundational understanding of process optimization and efficiency.
• A background in finance equips a leader with the crucial financial oversight and risk management skills needed for strategic decisions.
• A background in human resources provides deep expertise in organizational culture, talent management, and conflict resolution.

Seek out roles that provide cross-functional exposure and challenging, high-visibility projects. By consistently focusing on optimizing processes, driving execution, and cultivating the requisite leadership skills, you can strategically position yourself for this demanding executive role.

The post How to become a chief operating officer appeared first on GetSmarter Blog.

The consumer journey is no longer a straight line; it’s a dynamic path across countless screens and platforms. For marketers, this presents both a challenge and an opportunity. How do you avoid fragmenting your message across all the digital channels? Companies need skilled professionals who can respond to changing consumer patterns and are equipped to ensure optimal ROI) for marketing spend.

Sinan Aral, David Austin Professor of Management at the MIT Sloan School of Management, explains how digital marketing channels can be integrated to provide a holistic consumer experience with higher click-through rates, conversion rates, and ROI.

What is integrated digital marketing?

Integrated digital marketing is a strategic approach that involves implementing, evaluating, and optimizing marketing initiatives across all channels within a digital marketing mix. This method aims to maximize audience reach and effectiveness, ultimately optimizing return on investment.¹

Companies can balance real-time investments with this strategy, reallocating marketing dollars off underperforming channels and onto overperforming ones immediately. In a siloed campaign, the spend has nowhere else to go.

Integrated marketing provides a holistic, seamless experience for the customer. Whether they interact with the brand on Instagram, through a Google search, or via an email newsletter, the messaging and look should be consistent. 

Every interaction reinforces the other and together, these channels become greater than the sum of their parts. 

MIT Sloan School of Management
Digital Business Strategy: Harnessing Our Digital Future

FAQs

How is integrated digital marketing different from IMC?

Integrated digital marketing is a subset of integrated marketing communications (IMC), which involves aligning on all communication channels for a single message. This includes digital channels, like social media and video platforms, and traditional media such as print and event marketing.²

Is a digital marketing course worth it?

A digital marketing course can be worthwhile for marketing professionals, whether they are new to the field or have experience already, that want to harness the potential of their online audiences. Students can build on their foundational knowledge of digital marketing and explore topics like search engine optimization, website design, and social media marketing.

Is marketing mix still relevant today?

A marketing mix is the set of focus areas for a comprehensive marketing plan, sometimes called the four Ps: product, price, placement, and promotion. Instead of focusing on a single message, an effective marketing strategy balances addressing all four. How do integrated marketing play a role in the marketing mix? An integrated marketing campaign coordinates these messages across all channels.³

What is an example of integrated digital marketing?

One example of an integrated digital marketing campaign is coordinating web and mobile advertising, as opposed to web or mobile-only. This multi-touchpoint experience for users can improve click-through rates.

Transcript

Consumers live, work, and play across multiple channels and across multiple devices. So to communicate with them effectively, marketers must employ all of the different marketing channels in concert to go where the consumers are and to provide a seamless experience that fits into their lives.

Integrated digital marketing is a strategy designed to implement, assess, and optimize marketing efforts across all of the channels in a digital marketing mix. Integrated digital marketing allows you to reach the largest audience possible in the most effective manner possible in a way that optimizes return on investment.

The benefits of integrated digital marketing come from two sources. The first is balancing investments in real time. And the second is harnessing complementarities across channels. 

Balancing allows you to measure the effectiveness of ad dollars spent across all different channels, and to adjust the investments and the real-time spend across those channels based on how they’re performing.

If one channel is underperforming while another is performing better than expected, ad dollars can be reallocated from the underperforming channel to the overperforming channel in order to optimize return on the marketing dollar. This cuts wasteful ad dollars, while putting marketing investments to work on channels and campaigns that have a solid return.

The marketing channels don’t work in isolation, but rather as a unit guiding communication with consumers in a holistic manner with a 360-degree view of their needs, concerns, interests, and affinities. The use of one channel can integrate with and improve the functioning, and thus the returns, to another channel.

Let me give you some examples of this type of integration. Take, for instance, the interaction between display advertising and search advertising. How does display advertising affect the effectiveness of search advertising, and vice versa? Nearly a fifth of all search conversions have seen a digital display ad.

And experiments show that users exposed to a display ad conduct five to 25 percent more campaign-relevant searches. Display ads also increase search conversion and search clicks, which also increase search ad costs. A dollar invested in search and display together returns a dollar 24 for display and a dollar 75 for search.

This has been shown in experiments that have been randomized, so the causal relationships have been shown to be true. In addition to channels, cross media ad exposures can increase clicks and conversions. Take, for instance, online display ads and mobile display ads. Experiments have shown that for web click-through rates, web-only versus web and mobile advertising shows a clear advantage to the integration of web and mobile advertising together, garnering a 34 percent higher click-through rate on web channels. In addition, on mobile channels, the web and mobile advertising combination outperforms the mobile-only combination by 23 percent in experiments on mobile ad channels for the click-through rate. The story for conversions is very similar: web and mobile ads integrated together return a 34 percent higher conversion rate in experiments compared to mobile-only advertising to the same consumer. 

Integrated digital marketing also enables the marketer to avoid substitution. For instance, experiments have shown that web and mobile ads together reduce the conversion rate on the mobile device by 16 percent, compared to mobile-only ads. Which indicates that web ads could distract from consumers trying to purchase on the mobile phone. Understanding these complex complementarities and substitution effects is an important part of integrated digital marketing, and the benefits to an integrated digital channel mix.

The post Harnessing integrated digital marketing appeared first on GetSmarter Blog.

And they’re some of the most positively-viewed institutions in the United States. 86% of Americans say small businesses have a positive impact on the country — a stronger approval rating than the military, churches, and schools.³

Starting your own company comes with a lot of risk, but it can also be highly rewarding. For many, it is a chance to take control of their career and the allure of being your own boss can outweigh the uncertainty.

If working nine to five isn’t suited to you, perhaps it’s time to climb your own ladder, set a pace that suits you, and make your mark on the world. If you have a bright idea or a burning interest, here are seven good reasons for starting a business today.

Seven reasons to start a business:

1. Be your own boss
2. Turn your passion into a career
3. Be a creative problem solver
4. Achieve financial independence
5. Create jobs and foster careers
6. Develop new skills
7. Leave a lasting impact

1. Be your own boss

One of the most compelling reasons to start your own business is the freedom to call the shots. When you work for yourself, you’re the one in control. This sense of ownership is a compelling motivator for many: 64% of small business owners with employees say it was a very important reason they got started.⁴

You set the vision, make key decisions, and shape your own destiny. You decide how time is spent, what kind of company culture will reflect your values, and the quality of work that should be expected. It’s a chance to build a career on your own terms, where your hard work directly benefits you and the future you’re building.

Some of the benefits of being your own boss include:

• Choose your clients and projects: You get to work on projects you’re truly passionate about and with clients who share your vision and values.
• Set your own hours: While starting a business often means long hours, it also comes with the flexibility to create a workday and schedule that suits your lifestyle.
• Build the team you want: You can hire people who share your vision and values, creating a positive and productive work environment.

2. Turn your passion into a career

For many entrepreneurs, starting a business is an opportunity to transform a hobby or deep expertise into a viable career. Without the boundaries of someone else’s vision, you can build a business tailored to you and your interests.

• Jing Gao originally moved back to China for a tech job and soon, she was reconnecting with her family and her heritage through food. That passion took her from a culinary blog, to opening up a restaurant in Shanghai, and finally founding Fly By Jing, a modern Asian food brand.⁵

• In college, Melanie Perkins tutored graphic design students and watched them spend entire semesters navigating a steep learning curve. She envisioned a better platform that was online and accessible. Perkins started small, creating a tool specifically for designing yearbooks that grew into something more. Today, Canva is used by more than 125 million people.⁶

• Alli Webb was a professional hairstylist who needed a side hustle in 2009. Her mobile blowout business, Straight At Home, offered in-home salon styling for half the price. She eventually established a brick and mortar location (and has more than 160 locations as of 2023).⁷

3. Be a creative problem solver

Traditional jobs can come with strict rules, a rigid hierarchy, and a set way of doing things. But as an entrepreneur, you are the chief creative officer. You have the freedom to think outside the box and turn your ideas into reality. From finding innovative ways to solve problems to crafting a brand identity unique to you and your goals, there is creativity in every aspect of running your own business.

• Design your business from scratch: From the logo and website to the customer experience, you get to build a brand that is a unique expression of your vision.
• Solve problems your way: You can develop new solutions to market needs without following a corporate playbook.
• Experiment with new ideas: You have the freedom to test new products, services, or marketing strategies and pivot quickly based on the results.

4. Achieve financial independence

Building a stable, profitable business isn’t easy. Fewer than half of new employer establishments survived at least five years between 1994 and 2020.⁸ It’s why passion and planning are crucial to success. For the business owners that persevere, the financial rewards can be life-altering.

• No cap on your income: Your potential to earn is directly tied to the success of your business, not a fixed annual salary.
• Build an asset: Unlike a job, a successful business is a tangible asset that can be sold for a significant payout, providing long-term financial security.
• Create generational wealth: The money you earn and the asset you build can be a foundation for your family’s financial future.

5. Create jobs and foster careers

Small businesses drive the majority of job growth in the United States; they are responsible for two out of every three jobs created in the last 25 years.⁹ In South Africa, small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMMEs) account for 60% of all jobs.¹⁰ As your business grows, you have the opportunity to create jobs, hire talented individuals, and provide them with a supportive environment to grow their own careers.

This allows you to have a positive impact on your community by stimulating the local economy and giving others a chance to grow professionally.

• Help your community thrive: Your business can create new jobs and contribute to the economic health of your town or city.
• Provide a great place to work: You can build a company culture that is positive, supportive, and truly values its employees.
• Be a mentor: You have the chance to guide and develop the next generation of professionals.

6. Develop new skills

If you think you possess a range of key talents, entrepreneurship presents a way to utilize these skills to their full potential.

As an entrepreneur, you’ll fill many roles in your business, especially when starting out, which is why you can’t be afraid of doing the dirty work. Many days you’ll find yourself in the position of anything from leader and marketer to therapist and receptionist.

Essential entrepreneurial skills include the following:¹¹

• Business management skills, which include multitasking, delegating, and making decisions about your company’s health and profitability
• Teamwork and leadership skills are essential — in a small business, you’ll likely be supervisor and team member
• Customer service skills will help you connect with your customer base and establish opening partnerships
• Financial skills are needed to ensure you understand and control the money side of your business
• Strategic thinking and planning skills are necessary to stay competitive, reach your business goals, and grow your market reach
• Branding, marketing, and networking skills will be deployed to promote and grow your brand until you can hire someone to take this over

7. Leave a lasting impact

Whether you are solving a pressing problem, creating a product that improves lives, or building a company culture that serves as a model for others, your work can have a ripple effect. This impact can extend to your employees, your community, and even your industry, making entrepreneurship a direct path to leaving a meaningful and lasting mark on the world.

• Support causes you believe in: Beyond your core business, you can use your company’s success to make a difference by donating a portion of your profits to social causes, or by creating partnerships with non-profits.
• Create social good: You can build a business that is centered around a mission you care about, such as creating sustainable products or providing services to underserved communities.

Develop your strategic expertise with online business management courses, offered on GetSmarter in collaboration with the world’s leading universities.

If you want to challenge yourself and grow your entrepreneurial skills, consider joining the Oxford Entrepreneurship: Venture Creation Programme from Saïd Business School, University of Oxford. This six-week programme offers practical guidance, from identifying a market opportunity and developing a business model to learning how to launch and pitch your venture.

Saïd Business School, University of Oxford
Oxford Entrepreneurship: Venture Creation Programme

Similarly, the University of Cape Town (UCT) offers the Foundations of Business Management online short course. This eight-week course helps students to gain leadership, marketing, finance, market-research, and competitive-analysis skills.

University of Cape Town (UCT)
Foundations of Business Management online short course

The post 7 reasons to start a business and work for yourself appeared first on GetSmarter Blog.

While these topics may seem theoretical, their impact is deeply practical. From boosting performance to enabling scalability, they play a critical role in creating systems that are smart, responsive, and built to last.

What are data structures?

Data structures are methods of organizing and storing data to enable efficient access and modification.¹ Choosing the right structure helps reduce complexity and improve performance and scalability.

Common data structures include:²

• Arrays — Fixed-size data sets with predictable access patterns, such as storing high scores or calendar months.
• Linked lists — Useful for collections where elements are frequently added or removed, like playlists or to-do lists.
• Stacks and queues — Manage data in order. Stacks (Last In, First Out) support undo features. Queues (First In, First Out) handle task scheduling and messaging.
• Trees and graphs — Represent hierarchical or networked data. Examples include organizational charts, folder structures, or social networks.
• Hash tables — Optimize lookup speeds. Commonly used in caching, indexing, and authentication systems.

Each of these structures offers unique strengths, making them essential tools in every developer’s toolkit.

What are algorithms?

Algorithms are step-by-step instructions to complete tasks. Cooking recipes and math formulas can be thought of as algorithms. They allow us, and machines, to use proven methodologies in order to solve problems. Machine algorithms are developed by programmers and work in conjunction with data structures to deliver computational results efficiently.³

Common algorithm types include:⁴

• Sorting algorithms — Arrange data in a specific order to enable faster retrieval. Popular examples include quicksort, mergesort, and bubble sort.
• Searching algorithms — Help locate specific elements within a data set. Binary and linear search are common techniques.
• Graph traversal algorithms — Explore or map networks using depth-first or breadth-first search approaches.

How to choose the right data structure and algorithm

Not all data structures and algorithms are created equal. Choosing the right one can impact everything from application speed to maintainability.

Every operation is performed at a certain computational cost or complexity. Big O notation is used to describe the time and space that an algorithm takes up. It gives programmers a way to compare the efficiency and performance of different data structures or algorithms.

For example, there is linear complexity — O(n) — in which an algorithm’s runtime grows directly in proportion with the size of the input. Every additional input increases the runtime an equal amount. In contrast, in an algorithm with logarithmic complexity (O(log n)), the runtime increases proportional to the logarithm of the input. With every additional input, the runtime grows by a smaller and smaller amount.⁵

Selecting the right data structure and algorithm can change the Big O notation of your program. Here are several practical considerations to help maximize efficiency:⁶

• Data volume — Simple arrays or lists work for small data sets, while trees or graphs are better for large-scale or interconnected data.
• Operation frequency — If your application requires frequent inserts and deletes, dynamic structures like linked lists or balanced trees are more effective.
• Access patterns — Need fast lookups? Use hash tables. Processing tasks in order? Stacks and queues are ideal.

By aligning the structure to your use case, you create systems that are more efficient and scalable.

Where do data structures and algorithms appear in the real world?

Data structures and algorithms aren’t just academic — they shape the tools and services we use every day:

• Machine learning — Structures like matrices and trees are foundational in modeling and training algorithms.
• Web applications — DOM traversal and front-end rendering rely on tree structures and stack logic.
• Everyday tools — GPS route optimization, email delivery queues, and real-time search suggestions are all powered by well-chosen structures and algorithms.

Understanding how these systems work under the hood helps developers create more resilient and responsive applications.

Why learning these concepts matters for your career

Mastering data structures and algorithms is essential for professionals in software development, AI, data science, and more. Benefits could include:

• Interview readiness — These topics are frequently tested during technical assessments.⁷
• Performance credibility — Writing optimized code signals a strong technical foundation.
• Career resilience — As automation expands, demand for algorithmic thinking and analytical skills continues to grow.⁸

By investing in these skills, you could enhance your technical reputation and long-term employability.

How to start learning data structures and algorithms

You don’t need a computer science degree to begin. Structured learning options like data science and analysis courses offered by GetSmarter provide in-depth exploration, real-world applications, and expert instruction to build confidence and credibility.

Start by choosing a language like Python, which is known for readability and simplicity. Then, explore interactive content that includes visualizations, hands-on coding tasks, and incremental challenges. Reinforcing your learning with personal projects or real-world case studies helps ensure long-term retention and application.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

What’s the difference between an array and a linked list?

Arrays are indexed and fixed in size. Linked lists are dynamic and support frequent changes.⁹

Are algorithms only for developers?

No. Professionals in many fields benefit from algorithmic thinking when working with complex data.

What’s the fastest sorting algorithm?

It depends on the data. Quicksort is fast on average; mergesort is more stable for sorted inputs.¹⁰

Which programming language should I use to learn data structures and algorithms?

Python is often recommended for its readability and strong support libraries. Java and C++ are also commonly used. Ultimately, the programming language you choose should align with the kinds of projects you want to create, the industry you want to join, and your prior experience with math and coding.

What’s a real-world use case for graph traversal algorithms?

They’re commonly used in social networks to identify relationships, in maps for shortest path calculations, and in AI for planning.

Conclusion: Building a smarter technical foundation

Understanding data structures and algorithms helps professionals build logical, efficient, and scalable solutions. These foundational skills are essential for navigating modern technology and maintaining career competitiveness in a rapidly evolving landscape.

Whether you’re preparing for technical interviews or scaling complex systems, mastering these building blocks of software engineering is a smart step forward.

University of Cape Town (UCT)
Data Science with Python online short course

University of Cape Town (UCT)
Data Analysis online short course

MIT Sloan School of Management
Unsupervised Machine Learning: Unlocking the Potential of Data

The post Understanding data structures and algorithms: A practical guide for future-focused technologists appeared first on GetSmarter Blog.

In today’s dynamic and competitive business environment, it’s vital to update your management skills if you’re set on building your career.

The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) offers you the chance to do this, with the MBA Essentials online certificate course. During this 10-week course, you’ll increase your strategic, managerial, and leadership skills by focusing on three important principles: Business strategy, key financial knowledge, and human behavioural insights. Watch the testimonial video to hear what past participants thought of the course.

How the LSE MBA Essentials students benefit from an online learning platform

The course helped these participants improve their performance and learn to lead with influence. Here are their testimonials:

Giseli B.

Global Finance and Operations Lead, Dell Technologies

“I’m very satisfied with the overall experience of the LSE MBA Essentials course. The course content was well-structured, relevant, and thoughtfully curated, offering a solid foundation across key business areas. I particularly appreciated how the modules balanced theoretical frameworks with practical application, making the material highly engaging and immediately useful. The online learning experience was smooth and intuitive. The platform was user-friendly, and the combination of video lectures, interactive elements, and real-world case studies helped reinforce key concepts effectively. The pacing of the course also allowed for flexibility while maintaining a strong sense of progression.”

Hiba J.

CEO, Co-Founder, WETRAIN

“The overall impression about the content is simply outstanding and very comprehensive. The online experience is unmatched by any online course taken whether short or long – the GetSmarter and LSE online campus provides easy to follow and systematic approach that supported the learning experience regardless of technology savviness. The group discussions and moderators allowed for easy networking and unbelievable insights from a global network of experienced individuals. Whether anyone is looking to enhance their skill set or simply look for an up-to-date learning experience to further a new career; this course is simply on point. Thank you is a major understatement. Looking forward to more executive courses.”

Carolina F.

Partner and CBDO, T&C Consulting

“I really enjoyed the online learning experience. It worked perfectly for me because I could adjust everything to my own schedule and time zone. That flexibility made it much easier to stay committed and keep up with the modules. The topics were very useful, and I loved the way they were introduced and explored through the readings and videos; everything felt carefully chosen and easy to connect with. It made me want to keep going, and I found myself really looking forward to each new module. What I appreciated just as much was learning from everyone else in the course. The discussion forums were full of rich, interesting perspectives. Hearing from classmates with different backgrounds, cultures, and experiences opened my mind and added so much value to the whole experience. Overall, this program was fantastic.”

How the LSE MBA Essentials course helped leaders drive their business to stay ahead

Akos J.

Director, Global Compensation and Benefits, Tetra Pak

“The MBA Essentials course provided exactly what I was looking for. It gave me confidence and a refresher in corporate strategy and finance topics, and very sound and solid theoretical knowledge on leadership. The opportunity to engage with other classmates in the forum discussions provides a perfect platform to exchange ideas and challenge each other’s thinking process. The online tool experience is amazing. I had no issues and it’s super user-friendly. The overall course experience is something I can highly recommend to any fellow business leader who doesn’t have the resources (time or financial) to invest in a full MBA programme.”

Marouan L.

Manager, Financial Services, Customer, and Operations Consulting, PwC Greece

“This was a great learning experience. The material was of excellent quality and adapted to professionals who need to gain high-level knowledge in various subjects of business and management. The quizzes and written assignments were smartly designed. The discussion forums with like-minded individuals and tutors were very interesting. I think I have learned a lot through this journey and gained confidence in various subjects. The online learning design and support were great. Overall, it was an excellent experience that I would recommend without any reservation to persons who wish to boost their knowledge and careers.”

How the LSE MBA Essentials course helped professionals improve their current role and future potential

David L.

“Overall, I considered the course good value for money as one can see the amount of resources and effort that has been put into designing the material and format. I think the course will add value to my career prospects as I hadn’t previously had much formal exposure to the financial aspects of business management. Anybody who has experience of running budgets, but hasn’t had any significant formal financial business training, will find the course useful. It explains many of the reasons as to why we do a whole host of budget tasks, but perhaps have never been told why we do them.”

Liliana A.

Consultant, ICON-INSTITUT Public Sector GmbH

“The course is of superior quality both through the delivery of modules and interactive activity. By way of exposure, quality, and quantity of information, the course can be accessed by people with or without management experience. Responses are supervised and verified by professionals who provide you with useful feedback. The course is good value for money. I’ve explored new ideas and issues with people from different countries on different topics, supervised by professionals […] and have updated [my knowledge] with new trends in the financial and management field. This course will increase my career opportunities, especially in the private business area. I recommend this course for those who want professional development, but also for networking.”

Guy H.

“For me, the notes and content were ultra clear and well structured. I thought this quality was maintained consistently throughout the 10 modules, with great support from the GetSmarter team in the background. The GetSmarter online learning platform also performed well in that I never had any connectivity problems or ‘slows’, based here in London. There was a fair spread of topics, well balanced between the hard and fast ‘nuts and bolts’ of figure work, and the more diffuse aspects of customer behavioural psychology, and working with corporate culture. I also found plenty of takeouts in that an article or video we were referred to was in a clump of other related articles and videos that were also worth looking at. Importantly, it gave [me] the opportunity to apply theory to practical examples in case-study format, as well as relate previous work experiences to principles that were new to me. A well-constructed and worthwhile course from LSE.”

How the LSE MBA Essentials course provided practical takeaways

Rafael H.

Vice President, Mobility Key Accounts & Special Project, Siemens UAE

“[This is an] excellent course, which includes many practical examples that are relevant and useful in daily work. It helped me gain additional insights into peoples’ behaviours, influencing tactics, market views, and strategic directions. I’ve definitely enhanced my knowledge and feel very motivated to focus on my next career step. I highly recommend this course, especially for busy professionals!”

Santiago E.

Financial Lead, Vodafone Spain

“The course has been a fantastic experience from both a professional and personal perspective. I’ve developed a series of skills that today are essential for the management of any team, which I’m sure will allow me to move to a bigger role within my company. I also highlight the fact that upon finishing the course, you receive a certificate from the London School of Economics and Political Science, which is something that many people would like to see in their curriculum. I encourage anyone with a desire to continue developing their professional career to take this course. It’s been an incredible experience of very high quality, where I had the opportunity not only to learn, but also to meet people from all over the world.”

Courtney B.

Senior CRM Manager, HSBC Australia

“This course has reinvigorated and motivated me considerably over the past three months. I’ve learned so many interesting concepts covering economics, finance, and management that I would have never been exposed to in my marketing career. The continual assessments ensured I stayed on top of my learning every week, and couldn’t put it off and cram for one essay at the end. I believe I’ve absorbed a lot more of the content this way. Despite being in Australia, the time difference had no impact. I could respond to my peers in forums at any time during the week. I would highly recommend the LSE MBA Essentials course to anyone who is looking to challenge themselves and take their career to the next level.”

Who you’ll learn from

Now that you’ve heard from past participants, meet the convenors you’ll learn from throughout the course. The Course Convenor and Co-Designers are expert LSE faculty who have designed this online certificate course to provide you with an enriching, supportive learning experience. You’ll benefit from their vast experience and knowledge in the fields of business management and leadership.

Course Convenor

Dr. Connson Locke

Professorial Lecturer in Management, LSE

Connson joined LSE in 2008 from the Boston Consulting Group and her areas of expertise are leadership, negotiation, decision-making, and organisational behaviour. She is part of the academic leadership team for the Executive Global Master’s in Management, LSE’s cutting-edge alternative to an MBA, and also teaches the School’s most successful executive course on campus: Achieving Leadership Excellence. Connson holds a PhD and MSc in organisational behaviour from the University of California, Berkeley, and a BA in sociology from Harvard University. Her research interests include gender and leadership, diversity, and organisational culture.

Course Co-Designers

Dr. Jordi Blanes I Vidal

Associate Professor of Managerial Economics and Strategy, LSE

Jordi has been associated with the LSE for over 17 years, having completed his Master’s and PhD, both in Economics, at the School. In addition to being the associate professor of Managerial Economics and Strategy, he also teaches on the Executive Global Master’s in Management programme. He is an expert in organisational economics, leadership, human resource management, and the political economy. Before joining the LSE academic team, Jordi was a Prize Research Fellow at Nuffield College, Oxford University, and a visiting scholar at the National Bureau of Economic Research.

Dr. Barbara Fasolo

Associate Professor of Behavioural Science, LSE

Barbara is an associate professor of Behavioural Science at LSE and the programme director for LSE’s Executive Master’s in Behavioural Science. She received her Bachelor of Social Science degree in Italy with distinction and followed this up with a Master of Science degree, again with distinction, at LSE. An expert in choice processes and choice architecture, she has multiple publications in both peer-reviewed academic journals and media outlets, such as the Harvard Business Review. Barbara is the head of the LSE Behavioural Research Lab and is a member of various behavioural science and decision-making associations.

Khamid Irgashev

Chartered Accountant; Lecturer, LSE

Khamid is an ACA and ACCA chartered qualified accountant with considerable experience in various industries, including financial services (banking and insurance), retail, manufacturing, and publishing. Khamid also has a plethora of experience in coaching and leadership, has a Postgraduate Certificate in Higher Education, and is a fellow of the Higher Education Academy. In addition to his role at LSE, he is an assistant professor at Hult International Business School and a visiting lecturer at West London College. Over the past six years, he has had a leading role in teaching, coaching, and people management at LSE, Edinburgh Business School, University of London, and Hult International Business School.

While working your way towards an LSE certificate of competence, you’ll:

• Discover principles and techniques to effectively influence colleagues at all levels of your organisation
• Understand key economic principles and market forces that drive any business as you learn about the interaction between supply and demand
• Identify competitive advantage and how this is created as you discover the connection between the industry value chain and value creation
• Explore how to use financial tools such as budgeting, cost-volume-profit analysis, costing methods, and investment appraisal techniques to make better business decisions
• Learn to analyse financial statements and annual reports, using ratio analyses and financial insights to gauge the financial performance of a business
• Explore the advantages and disadvantages of vertical integration and horizontal expansion in business
• Improve your financial expertise as you explore the principles of financial accounting, identifying how various stakeholders use financial information
• Gain awareness of common decision traps that leaders fall into and how to become a better decision-maker
• Learn how to influence your peers and decisions made by consumers with nudging techniques as you explore the concept of choice architecture
• Investigate the dynamics of organisational change and culture, and the relationship between culture and leadership

As a world-leading social science university, LSE has 125 years of experience providing working professionals with the skills and confidence to enhance their personal impact.¹ Over this time, 16 Nobel Prize winners and 34 world leaders have taught or studied at LSE. This is your opportunity to learn from eminent thought leaders on an LSE course as you grow your global business network.

Are you ready to elevate your career? 

Register now to gain key leadership and strategic skills.

THE LONDON SCHOOL OF ECONOMICS AND POLITICAL SCIENCE (LSE)
MBA Essentials online certificate course

The post Student testimonials: Is LSE MBA Essentials worth it? appeared first on GetSmarter Blog.

Browse the resources for teachers below to find insights, lesson plans, teaching tips, and community support. Online teaching courses can also be a great way to engage in a community and develop skills.

The links below are just a sample of what is available to educators online. GetSmarter does not endorse any specific lesson plans, organizations, or publications listed here.

Lesson planning and classroom resources

Edutopia

Edutopia offers teaching strategies, classroom tools, and evidence-based project ideas. It focuses on promoting best practices across topics like social-emotional learning and technology integration.

National Geographic Education

National Geographic offers a free collection of resources for teaching that includes maps, videos, interactives, and more. Browse resources by topic, resource type, and U.S. grade level.

ReadWriteThink

This is a free collection of reading and language arts instruction materials. ReadWriteThink offers lesson plans, printables, and student interactives for teachers of all ages.

Teacha!

The Teacha! platform is a library of lesson plans and teaching resources offered for free or priced by the seller. From printables to decorate your classroom to worksheets, there are resources available for a variety of ages and languages.

Teachit

Teachit offers an online library of English-language teaching resources for primary and secondary classrooms. Browse worksheets and lesson activities that are curated by their publishing team of former teachers.

Twinkl

Twinkl is an online library of downloadable education resources for teachers in the United States, South Africa, and around the world. Browse lesson plans, art projects, unit assessments and more by schooling phase.

University of Cape Town (UCT)
UCT Learning and Teaching in the Digital Age bundle

Professional organizations for educators

For teachers in South Africa

Teacha! communities

The communities page on Teacha! is a message board for teachers to share resources and find support among different teaching groups. These communities focus on different focus areas, such as tutors and teachers from specific countries.

National Professional Teachers’ Organisation of South Africa (NAPTOSA)

NAPTOSA is a trade union representing educators in South Africa. It advocates for members’ rights and interests, providing support in labor matters, salary negotiations, and improving working conditions. Trade unions can also have resources on how to become a teacher in South Africa.

South African Society for History Teaching (SASHT)

This professional organization promotes the development of history education in South Africa. Founded in 1986, SASHT organizes conferences, produces the journal Yesterday & Today, and offers resources to foster teachers’ professional development.

The South African Society of Music Teachers (SASMT)

SASMT has been a professional association for music educators in South Africa for more than one hundred years. It supports members through advocacy, professional development, and music competitions and events.

South African Association for Language Teaching (SAALT)

Founded in 1964, SAALT supports language teachers and researchers through resources, conferences, and global networks. They focus on multilingualism and cutting-edge teaching practices.

For teachers in the United States

National Education Association (NEA)

The NEA is the largest professional organization for educators in the United States, representing over three million members. It advocates for public education and educator rights, providing resources, professional development, and a platform for educators.

National Art Education Association

NAEA is a professional organization for art educators in the U.S. Founded in 1947, it provides members with access to online learning, local community associations, grants, and more. NAEA also engages in advocacy for arts education and hosts an annual convention.

National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM)

Founded in 1920, NCTM is the world’s largest mathematics education organization. Members have access to resources, research, and a community of math educators.

National Science Teaching Association (NSTA)

NSTA is a community of more than 35,000 science educators and professionals devoted to science literacy and education. The organization supports members with access to professional development, conferences, a national network, and more.

National Council for the Social Studies (NCSS)

NCSS is a professional association focused on promoting and enhancing social studies education. Membership includes access to learning resources such as instructional videos, educational guides, and more.

For teachers everywhere

Education International

A global federation of education unions, Education International (EI), represents over 33 million teachers and education workers in 180 countries. EI champions quality education, teachers’ rights, and democratic values. Additionally, it facilitates collective action to enhance education globally.

International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE)

ISTE is a global nonprofit organization that supports educators to innovate teaching and learning using technology. It offers professional development, networking, and resources, including standards, to enable educators to develop engaging learning experiences with technology for their students.

Teaching news and publications

Education Week

Education Week is a source of news and information on K-12 education in the U.S. It provides in-depth coverage of educational policy, teaching practices, and research.

Mail & Guardian

The Mail & Guardian’s “Teachers” section covers in-depth news, analysis, and stories related to educators in South Africa.

TEACH Magazine

TEACH Magazine is a Canadian publication for K-12 teachers that delivers practical content on classroom management, reading, professional development, and more. Read about how AI is changing education, get tips for dealing with difficult parents, and find reading recommendations.

Worlds of Education

World of Education is a publication from Education International for teachers, activists, and advocates to share their insights and engage in a global conversation. Browse articles that cover everything from the global teaching shortage and academic freedom to engaging students.

Related programs

University of Cape Town (UCT)
Instructional Design

University of Cape Town (UCT)
Teaching With Technology

HARVARD'S DEREK BOK CENTER
Higher Education Teaching Certificate

The post Teacher resources: 20+ lesson planning tools, communities, and more appeared first on GetSmarter Blog.

Are you ready to rise to the challenge? Whether you’ve known from a young age that teaching is your passion or you’re considering a career switch, there are a few steps you need to take before reaching the classroom.

Requirement for teaching

Teaching requirements in South Africa include a combination of postgraduate education, registration, and continuing professional development.

The steps below represent one pathway on how to become a teacher. However, your journey to become a teacher might look different. Check with the appropriate governing bodies to confirm the best steps for you and confirm your eligibility before applying to universities or for professional registration.

1. Education

Becoming a teacher starts with being a student. Future educators need training to learn not just the material they’ll eventually share with students, but the best practices to teach and manage classrooms.

In South Africa, there are two degree paths towards teacher certification:²

1. A four-year Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) degree, or 
2. A three- or four-year bachelor’s degree and a one-year Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE).

A Bachelor of Education is a four-year, full-time course in which students specialize in one or more schooling phases.³ The phases correspond to their eventual classroom’s age, such as the Foundation Phase for grades R–3 or the Intermediate Phase for grades 4–6.

A Postgraduate Certificate in Education is a one- to two-year course taken after completion of an undergraduate degree.⁴ A PGCE can be a great option for aspiring teachers who already have a bachelor’s degree in a subject other than education and want to switch careers. In this program, students learn via theoretical and practical study focused on the teaching profession. Like in the B.Ed., students can specialize in a specific schooling phase in a PGCE.

For future educators who want to teach Intermediate Phase and older, they can also specialize in a specific subject area. For example, you might choose to study mathematics or language arts.

2. Certification and registration

All qualified teachers must register with the South African Council for Educators (SACE) before applying to teaching posts.⁵ To complete the SACE registration process, applicants must submit:⁶

• Certified copies of a degree or professional certificates
• Certified copy of an identity document
• A registration fee

There are also special registration categories. If you’re interested in becoming an early childhood development practitioner or a teacher at a vocational school, for example, you may have to submit additional documentation or certificates.⁷

For foreign teachers, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) will evaluate your credentials before you can register with SACE. There may also be extra application requirements for teaching.⁸

Be sure to double check with the appropriate registering authority for the most up-to-date teaching requirements.

3. Apply for jobs

Once you complete your education and register with SACE, you might be ready to apply to teaching posts. Finding a job can be a long and complicated process, but with the right preparation and teaching resources it can feel easier.

In South Africa, there isn’t one central website to find open teaching posts. To get started, you may find some of the below resources helpful.

Individual school websites or offices can be a good place to start if you’re interested in nearby or specific schools. The best method of applying will vary from school to school, so have a CV and professional email prepared if there is no official online portal.

Provincial education departments manage public schools in South Africa. Check with the specific department’s website to see vacant positions at schools in that province. For instance, the Western Cape Government has an e-recruitment portal for applicants.⁹ The Eastern Cape Education Department has an online form for unemployed teachers, too.¹⁰ Other provinces release PDF versions of their postings as they open.

Traditional job board websites, like Indeed and LinkedIn, can have postings for open teaching positions.

The Independent Schools Association of South Africa (ISASA) is an association of independent schools in South Africa. If you’re interested in teaching at a private school, ISASA has an online vacancies board for positions at their member schools.¹¹

4. Professional development

Teaching requires evolving – students’ needs can change as society does. New research into child development and technological advances will also affect classrooms, from best practices to the very tools we use to read and write.

It’s crucial that teachers expand their knowledge and skills over time, so they can adapt to new circumstances and prepare children for tomorrow’s world.

In South Africa, educators must engage in Continuing Professional Teacher Development (CPTD) to stay registered with SACE. According to SACE, teachers have to earn at least 150 CPTD points every three years across three types of professional development (PD) categories.¹²

Type 1: Teacher-initiated activities 

These are self-chosen professional development activities meant to give teachers some responsibility over their own learning journey. You can pursue the PD choices that best suit your own schedule, resources, and desired outcomes. Some examples of Type-1 activities include:

• Mentoring and coaching other teachers
• Presenting a conference paper
• Participating in educational book clubs
• Completing a self-funded short course or skills programme

Type 2: School-initiated activities

These are PD activities that are led by schools to address shared needs among their educators. Type-2 activities could be informed by a collective of teachers or the school management team. Some Type-2 activities include:

• School meetings
• School community action research
• Subject cluster meetings
• School seminars or mini conferences

Type 3: Externally-initiated activities

Type-3 activities are led by either employers (provincial education departments, school governing bodies, etc.) or providers (private, NGOs, etc.). Some of these PD activities are subject to SACE evaluation, so it’s important to check with their database to confirm that the programme is eligible for points. Some examples of Type-3 activities include:

• Online teaching courses and skills development programmes
• Conferences and seminars
• Subject content or knowledge upgrading
• Self-diagnostic assessment

University of Cape Town (UCT)
UCT Learning and Teaching in the Digital Age bundle

FAQ

How much do teachers get paid?

In South African public schools, teachers are paid according to salary bands that correspond to their qualifications, experience, and position. For example, a teacher with four years of university education might enter on Notch 164 out of 375.¹³ The minimum annual salary at this notch is R333,624, as of January 2024.¹⁴

How to become a teacher without a degree?

A degree is part of the teaching requirements for public schools in South Africa. All SACE applicants must have a bachelor’s degree in education, or a bachelor’s degree and a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) to successfully register.

How long does it take to become a teacher?

How long it takes to become a teacher will depend on the educational path you follow and whether you take additional time to complete internships or specialized study. For example, a bachelor’s of education can be completed in four years on a traditional, full-time schedule. Other future teachers may need more time to complete their bachelor’s, earn a PGCE, or finish additional postgraduate education to enter the job at a higher level of mastery.

Can I become a teacher online?

Yes, it is possible to become a teacher online with online degree options from accredited universities. In South Africa, an online degree program from a qualified institution counts the same as an in-person degree. Whether you choose to learn online or on-campus will depend on your resources, time, and goals.

Related programs

University of Cape Town (UCT)
Instructional Design

University of Cape Town (UCT)
Teaching With Technology

HARVARD'S DEREK BOK CENTER
Higher Education Teaching Certificate

The post How to become a teacher in South Africa appeared first on GetSmarter Blog.