The education industry has been quite slow in accepting technological advancements. Online learning came into existence a few years ago but wasn’t accepted by the masses as it lacked the human component necessary for learning. Online learning or e-learning is a formalized teaching-based learning system that makes use of electronic resources like smartphones, tablets, or laptops. It is primarily based on using computers and the internet, and teaching can take place in or outside of formal classroom settings. Also known as network-enabled transfer of skills and knowledge, online classes are delivered virtually via video conferencing applications.
Since the COVID-19 pandemic, e-learning has become the most popular training method as it can be accessed at any time, from anywhere. The traditional way of employee training is becoming too much of a burden, taking too much effort and money to organize, as a variety of businesses have their workforces distributed across the world. Thanks to quick e-learning solutions, businesses that rely largely on classroom instruction may now guarantee uninterrupted training. Some of the popular ways of e-learning include journals, ebooks, live videos, quizzes, recorded lectures, interviews, discussion forums, and live Q&A sessions.
If you are yet to try online learning, you must be aware of its pros and cons. In this article, we have listed them down. Read on and decide whether online learning is right for you.
Advantages of Online Classes
Here are some of the top advantages of pursuing online learning over traditional learning methods.
Affordable
One of the top reasons why people lean towards online learning is its affordability. Compared to full-time on-campus university courses, online courses are cheaper and cover the same syllabus. Some platforms offer their introductory courses even for free, while others give students a one-month free trial or 10-day free trial options to get started. Platforms like Udemy are quite popular among students as their courses are offered at one of the cheapest rates online.
Flexibility
Physical classroom training is taken at a fixed time and place. If you miss the class, you can get the notes, but the instructor will not explain the same things again. On the other hand, online classes involve pre-recorded videos that can be replayed again and again till the student understands the concept. There is no fixed time to access the video modules, and as and when you are free, you can open your Learning Management System (LMS) and refer to the lecture. This flexibility is highly desired by working professionals.
Highly experienced trainers
Compared to on-campus courses, where a local trainer conducts all the classes, online classes give you access to trainers across the world. More often, the selected trainers are highly qualified and have rich domain experience. They are aware of the latest developments in the industry and incorporate them during their live lectures. With such guidance, you are more likely to understand concepts faster and in an easy way.
Learning goes beyond theoretical knowledge
Physical classroom training does not involve any videos or other visual elements that help students remember concepts better. It is just limited to an explanation by a mentor and text written on the board. On the other hand, online classes have become quite advanced and now include various engaging elements like virtual labs, interactive quizzes, gamification of concepts, and more. For example, the inclusion of virtual reality and augmented reality in education has helped medical students practice experimental procedures in virtual reality settings and biology students to interact virtually with plants, birds, mammals, insects, and amphibians.
Disadvantages of Online Classes
There are probably more advantages of online learning than disadvantages. However, you should be aware of the limited cons of online learning to make the right decision. Here are some of the limitations of online learning.
Lack of engagement
Some people are used to the physical classroom setting, and the presence of other students and a mentor help them focus better. However, the same environment is not present when appearing for an online class. You are typically isolated from your fellow students, and sitting alone may cause distraction and make you feel less engaged in the class.
Discipline
As online classes give you more flexibility, you may not feel determined enough to follow the class at a planned time. As you have the leverage of accessing the course materials anytime, you may tend to delay your learning because of other routine tasks. Though not everyone behaves the same, many are unable to remain on schedule as opposed to physical classroom training, where you don’t have an option but to cover the topic on time.
Occurrence of technical problems
As physical classroom training doesn’t involve the use of any gadget or device, there are practically no chances of class disruption. On the other hand, online classes are conducted via electronic devices that are prone to technical issues like low battery, poor internet connection, power failure, or poor audio/video quality. These issues are common during the initial phases of online learning, and students tend to get solutions for them over time.
Looking at the pros and cons of online learning, you can now decide whether online classes are your trial or not. Given the technological advancements in the education sector, you can at least give a try at online courses and then come to a specific conclusion.
