Conventional education has undergone tremendous changes in the last few years.
Due importance has been given to aspects which directly impact student-learning. Teacher-student ratio, personalized education, incorporation of technology, accessibility, and availability are only some of the aspect that have taken the limelight recently.
With new technologies catering to the educational needs of students, it’s safe to say that being physically present in a classroom is no longer the only option. As long as you have access to the internet and a smartphone or computer, it is possible to access education as desired. Technology has enabled unprecedented accessibility, availability, and mobility of education.
Although technology has made things easier for all, the traditional approach to education cannot and need not be eradicated. The notion of leaving the classroom for the internet’s abode is a false idea. It doesn’t seem rational to compare the efficiency of machine integration to the value humans add to the classroom. At least not yet. The essence of traditional classrooms – the teachers – are here to stay. However, now they need to upskill and be prepared to lead in their profession with the skills of technology integration for all aspects of teaching.
eLearning is not only benefiting students but also helps educators by providing various tools and resources to which they cannot have access to irrespective of their location and stature. It allows the exchange of knowledge with peers sitting continents away. Students and educators can reach out to anyone around the globe to learn, collaborate, and share expertise.
With many benefits for students and educators alike, it’s safe to say that eLearning is the future of education.
Let’s look at some key reasons in the pointers below:
1. Flexibility
Online education enables the teacher and the student to set their own learning pace, and there’s added flexibility of setting a schedule that fits everyone’s agenda. Using an online educational platform allows flexibility to the learner. This helps individuals who are working along with pursuing education. Students can have a balance of work and studies, so there’s no need to pick one or give up one for the other. Also, since there is flexibility to learn as per convenience, it inculcates time management skills to find a good work-study balance. Having a common agenda between the student and teacher can also prompt both parties to accept new responsibilities and have more autonomy.
2. Web-Based Learning Will Grow In Popularity
Considering the current crisis of COVID-19, it is expected that web-based learning will experience a surge as social distancing rules become more concrete in everyday life. The approach includes a variety of setups like live streaming, video-on-demand, seminars, webinars, talk shows, interviews, and more. A common characteristic of all these available options is the convenience and flexibility students and teachers get while working on a web-based learning model. This alone is a key reason for web-based learning to become more popular in the years to come.
3. It’s accessible
Online education is mobile. It enables you to study or teach from anywhere. Online learning helps to eliminate both social and physical barriers, meaning if a student misses his class, he can access the lectures online if made available. The same is the case with skill-based online certificates and degrees, which have been made accessible through online modes for better learning. You’re no longer required to commute to a particular place or follow a rigid schedule. The virtual classroom is also available anywhere there’s an internet connection.
4. Customized learning experience
One of the best features of online learning is the personalized experience students get. Online education is not only flexible for each student’s requirements but also addresses the concerns around the level of ability. Students get access to diverse material such as videos, photos, and eBooks online as well, and tutors can also integrate other formats like forums or discussions to improve their lessons. And this extra content is available at any moment from anywhere, which will offer you a more dynamic and tailor-made education.
5. It offers a wide selection of programs
The vast selection of programs available online brings more value to eLearning. Many institutions and universities are offering online versions of their courses that students can take from anywhere in the world. From music composition to quantum physics, there are options for every type, of course, students want to take. It is a great option for getting an official certificate, diploma, or degree without physically setting foot on a university campus.
6. Better Learning Experience
Since students get to learn at their own pace, they are motivated to get hands-on experience. Also, students can attend classes from places they’re comfortable being in, which helps them in keeping a positive attitude. This feature is beneficial for students struggling with psychological issues as they get to learn as they like without any added pressure.
7. Better Student-Tutor Interactions
Most online learning courses that rely on live streaming have a cap on the number of students who can enrol, ensuring that each student gets adequate attention and advice from their tutor. The online environment provides teachers more time on their hands to focus on individual students and address their concerns.
8. Career advancement
Students can take online courses and even complete entire degrees while working, while in-between jobs, or while taking time to raise a family. This academic work will explain any discontinuity or gaps in a resume as well. Also, earning a degree can show ambitiousness to prospective employers and a desire to remain informed and prepared for new challenges.
9. Teacher Development
E-learning is not only beneficial for students but also the teachers. Teaching with e-learning resources requires educators to keep updating one’s approach to teaching. This forces educators to consistently work up on their skills, in turn making professional development a continuous, daily activity.
10. Cost-Effective
Online education is more affordable and cost-effective. Multiple payment options allow you to pay in instalments or per class. Since students don’t need to present in a brick & mortar classroom, the expenditures are reduced to a great extent. The fees often don’t account for accommodation, textbooks, equipment, groceries, transport, and other factors that contribute to the full learning experience in traditional schooling. Online learning slashes most of these costs at least by half, leaving students to make the most of the affordable prices they’ve paid. Students can also save money from the commute and class materials, which are often available for free.
