With the dramatic growth of online education, there are many opinions about online learning. For some students, e-learning has opened numerous new pathways. Other students have struggled with accessing their classes and the format of online classes for higher education.
For the top five advantages and disadvantages of online classes for higher education, read more
Pluses of Online Learning
1. Access to More Classes
One great advantage of taking online classes for higher education is the access to classes from so many educational facilities. No longer does a university or college need to meet a minimum number of students to hold a class from just their school. When the class is offered online, students from all universities can take the course.
2. Ability to Live Almost Anywhere
Anywhere in the world that has reliable internet access can be home for a student who is enrolled in an online college or university. Students can live in a town or village in which they are most comfortable and access their education.
3. Saves Money
Since classes can be made available for students around the globe, institutions of higher learning can increase their enrollment without increasing their costs. This provides students with a great education at a lower cost per class.
4. Flexible Schedule
In addition to the flexibility to live anywhere, online courses can often be accessed any time of the day. If a student misses a class, they can pull up the video edition of the class and remain on schedule to complete their degree. Students who work or have family responsibilities can create a schedule based on their needs outside of school.
5. Student Centered
Often online classes will be separated into smaller breakout groups. This provides more students the opportunity to become involved in class discussions. Additionally, with the possibility of interacting with students from a broader section of the world, all students will develop a greater awareness of each other.
Negatives of Online Education
1. Time on Devices
An online education translates into an increase in the amount of time students spend working on and interacting with a device. Without an ergonomically designed workstation, spending hours on screens can lead to physical issues for the students.
2. Inconsistent Internet Access
Lack of quality internet access is a concern for students seeking an online higher education. Internet access can be costly in many areas. Each area in a town or city does not have the same access or other sections of the same towns and cities.
3. Teacher Prep
Not all instructors have been trained on how to make the best use of online educational tools. Many programs to train teachers focus on facilitating classes in a physical environment. Creating an effective virtual classroom requires a different skill set.
4. Curriculum
Curricular programs developed for on-the-ground learning need to be adapted to online learning. When curriculum is created and written, it needs to be done incorporating the benefits of today’s technology. Adapting the current curriculum to online education does not create the quality programs students need.
5. Sociability
For some students, learning via a distance learning platform can be socially isolating. The interaction through screens can leave many feeling detached from the others in the class. Students do not have to talk to anyone, look anyone in the eye, or have social conversations.
For each student, there are benefits and negatives to obtaining a higher education online. A hybrid approach is the answer for some, which takes the best of both worlds.
