There is no doubt the world of technology has changed the way humanity functions. The global coronavirus pandemic created a situation never before experienced, and technology came to the rescue of many. Schools, businesses and social interaction moved from real life to online, whether it was embraced or not.
Has it been a positive change? Does virtual communication work, or specifically how effective is online learning?
Courses
The statistics speak for themselves. More and more courses are becoming available online than ever before. Supply and demand are at work, with a predicted 350 billion dollars spent on online education by 2025. So what courses are there?
There are thousands of online courses currently available. Apart from the most obvious academic courses, you can also learn practical skills; for example, at https://www.ilearntoboat.com/maryland/, you can discover information about training in boating through an interactive activity designed to simulate real-life events. In addition, the course offers official certification you can use to operate boats throughout Maryland.
Other practical subjects such as hairdressing, veterinary nursing and midwifery can also be learnt online with amazing animations, videos, and live surgery visuals. Additionally, you can learn Power BI and other tech courses.
Advantages
What advantages does online learning have over physical classroom interaction? Firstly, self-paced learning is a better way of absorbing information. Studying when you are most productive is a great way to learn faster without the pressure of specific classroom times. It also enables you to manage time effectively and study around any commitments, perfect if you have full-time work or family responsibilities because it is so accessible.
Studying online also helps with technical skills; vital to navigate the increasingly technological world.
Another plus point to online learning is comfort. No commute, no hard classroom chairs. You can learn in your environment and create a personal space conducive to learning.
Cost is another asset of switching online. Many courses are cheaper without classroom tutors, and some offer monthly rates or discounts. You still have the benefits of tutoring with an assigned tutor that you can contact for support or guidance. There are also many courses available free of charge.
Children
The global pandemic has seen drastic action taken by many schools across the globe. However, headteachers have adapted and managed to get lessons presented online, and for the most part, it has been a success.
Online schools have been available for years, and more and more parents realise the benefits of using online schools as a substitute for classroom-based learning. Children are more focused and less distracted by others around them. Bullying isn’t an issue, and parents have more control. Class sizes are smaller, enabling children to receive more 1-1 attention, which helps them learn more effectively. Teachers are available to help and facilitate and school days are shorter.
Online schooling is available to anyone, and although it can be costly, it’s cheaper than private school and is an excellent option for children who are introverts and struggle in a mainstream school environment. Lessons are child-focused and ideal for all learner types.
There’s no doubt that the technological revolution has created opportunities for online learning for those who may have found it inaccessible. Tech should not take over lives but be recognised and embraced for all that it has given us.