In today’s ever-changing world with new possibilities each day, online learning is a new normal and has grown in popularity after the global pandemic. Through online learning, students across the globe can get instant education from the comfort of their homes. While this may have seemed impossible in the past, it is the preferred learning method for most people, and its widespread adoption is reshaping the education sector globally.
Despite having numerous benefits, online learning has its fair share of disadvantages that may vary depending on the student’s motivation and your area of residence. However, it is essential to maintain an open mind and carefully consider what works for you and what doesn’t, as far as online learning is concerned.
Flexibility
Through online learning, students have unlimited options to choose whatever they want. Therefore, you can select a course you wish to, the study partner you want, a period that works for you, and how you want to study. As a result of this flexibility, students with busy schedules can choose a period to manage their businesses and daily activities and still find time to learn.
In addition, online learning allows anyone to take a course they are interested in and still manage to share quality time with their loved ones or friends. Traditionally, parents with small kids could not find time to study due to the constant responsibilities at home.
However, online learning offers them unmatched flexibility to juggle parenting and education without much strain. Online learning is so flexible that you can take a class while traveling between countries or cities without much compromise.
Convenience
Online learning offers learners an unmatched convenience that means they can take lessons at any time from the comfort of their homes. If you need to work during the day to make ends meet, online learning is a convenient option that allows you to balance your education with other critical parts of your life. Through online learning, students can get announcements, access learning resources, take quizzes, and chat with other students at any time they wish to.
Online learning has also become increasingly accessible for medical students who may be seeking online MCAT tutors that can help ensure their success. Without physically meeting, students can get assistance from such qualified tutors and help improve their grades at the comfort of their homes.
Affordability
Despite the cost of acquiring a smartphone or computer and paying for the internet, online learning is way cheaper compared to in-person learning at physical schools. Whereas you may be required to pay for tuition fees for specific online courses, some are entirely free, and you only need to spare time and attend classes.
Besides, online learning saves you from numerous unnecessary costs such as transport, lunch money, and the cost of missing work to attend classes. Moreover, online learning allows you to multitask between different institutions if you are taking various courses without having to bear the actual cost of physically moving between these institutions.
You will end up saving more through online learning, which results in financial stability and significant progress upon re-investment of such funds.
Isolation
Like most good things, online learning has several downsides, including the isolation of students. By integrating with students and teachers, learners can sharpen various skills and grow their knowledge through consultation. In cases where students fail to integrate, it may affect their social skills and ability to work in teams, a topic that online learning seems to neglect.
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Procrastination
Online learning breeds a culture of laziness and procrastination among many students. Without physical supervision, most students tend to postpone pending tasks, and most end up failing to submit quizzes and assignments on time.
Besides, it becomes difficult to attend classes since there is no one to physically remind you of upcoming courses and emphasize the need to participate. Online learning makes it even more challenging to prepare for your exams during exam periods since you can easily postpone reading.
As a result of constant procrastination, students end up having dismal performances and dropping out of their courses due to teachers’ lack of physical follow-up.
Conclusion
Online learning is highly beneficial to most learners due to its high flexibility and convenience. It instills a culture of self-discipline and promotes life-long learning. However, it requires independent thinkers who can work without constant supervision, meaning some students may fail to reap the benefits of online learning. Take charge of your education and choose a learning option that fits your personality, job, and interests well.
