speech on pros and cons of online learning

The pros and cons of online learning

What to look for in an online course.

By: MIT xPRO

If you’re at a point in your life where you’re considering continuing your education, you may wonder if online learning is the right path for you.

Taking an online course requires a notable investment of time, effort, and money, so it’s important to feel confident about your decision before moving forward. While online learning works incredibly well for some people, it’s not for everyone.

We recently sat down with MIT xPRO Senior Instructional Designer and Program Manager Luke Hobson to explore the pros and cons of online learning and what to look for in an online course. If you’re waiting for a sign about whether or not to enroll in that course you’ve been eying, you just might find it here.

Pros of Online Learning

First, let’s take a look at the true value of online learning by examining some of the benefits:

1. Flexibility

Online learning’s most significant advantage is its flexibility. It’s the reason millions of adults have chosen to continue their education and pursue certificates and degrees.

Asynchronous courses allow learners to complete work at their own pace, empowering them to find the optimal time to consume the content and submit assignments.

Some people are more attentive, focused, and creative in the mornings compared to the evenings and vice versa. Whatever works best for the learners should be the priority of the learning experience.

2. Community

When Luke asks people about their main reason for enrolling in a course, a common answer is networking and community.

Learners crave finding like-minded individuals who are going through the same experiences and have the same questions. They want to find a place where they belong. Being in the company of others who understand what they’re going through can help online learners who are looking for support and motivation during challenging times and times that are worth celebrating.

Some learners have created study groups and book clubs that have carried on far beyond the end of the course-it’s amazing what can grow from a single post on a discussion board!

3. Latest information

“Speed is a massive benefit of online learning,” and according to Luke, it often doesn’t get the attention it deserves.

“When we say speed, we don’t mean being quick with learning. We mean actual speed to market. There are so many new ideas evolving within technical spaces that it’s impossible to keep courses the way they were originally designed for a long period of time.”

Luke notes that a program on Additive Manufacturing , Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality , or Nanotechnology must be checked and updated frequently. More formal learning modalities have difficulty changing content at this rapid pace. But within the online space, it’s expected that the course content will change as quickly as the world itself does.

Cons of Online Learning

Now that we’ve looked at some of the biggest pros of online learning, let’s examine a few of the drawbacks:

1. Learning environment

While many learners thrive in an asynchronous learning environment, others struggle. Some learners prefer live lessons and an instructor they can connect with multiple times a week. They need these interactions to feel supported and to persist.

Most learners within the online space identify themselves as self-directed learners, meaning they can learn on their own with the right environment, guidance, materials, and assignments. Learners should know themselves first and understand their preferences when it comes to what kind of environment will help them thrive.

2. Repetition

One drawback of online courses is that the structure can be repetitive: do a reading, respond to two discussion posts, submit an essay, repeat. After a while, some learners may feel disengaged from the learning experience.

There are online courses that break the mold and offer multiple kinds of learning activities, assessments, and content to make the learning experience come alive, but it may take some research to find them-more on what to look for in an online course later in this article! Luke and his colleagues at MIT xPRO are mindful of designing courses that genuinely engage learners from beginning to end.

3. Underestimation

Luke has noticed that some learners underestimate how much work is required in an online course. They may mistakenly believe that online learning is somehow “easier” compared to in-person learning.

For those learners who miscalculate how long they will need to spend online or how challenging the assignments can be, changing that mindset is a difficult process. It’s essential to set aside the right amount of time per week to contribute to the content, activities, and assignments. Creating personal deadlines and building a study routine are two best practices that successful online learners follow to hold themselves accountable.

Experience the Value of Online Learning: What to Look For in an Online Course

You’ve probably gathered by now that not all online courses are created equal. On one end of the spectrum, there are methods of online learning that leave learners stunned by what a great experience they had. On the other end of the spectrum, some online learning courses are so disappointing that learners regret their decision to enroll.

If you want to experience the value of online learning, it’s essential to pick the right course. Here’s a quick list of what to look for:

• Feedback and connection to peers within the course platform. Interacting regularly with other learners makes a big difference. Luke and the MIT xPRO team use peer-reviewed feedback to give learners the opportunity to engage with each other’s work.
• Proof of hard work. In the online learning space, proof of hard work often comes in the form of Continuing Education Units (CEUs) or specific certifications. MIT xPRO course participants who successfully complete one or more courses are eligible to receive CEUs , which many employers, licensing agencies, and professional associations accept as evidence of a participant’s serious commitment to their professional development.

Online learning isn’t for everyone, but with the right approach, it can be a valuable experience for many people. Now that you know what to look for in an online course, see what Luke and the MIT xPRO instructional design team have to offer by checking out the latest MIT xPRO courses and programs .

Originally published at http://curve.mit.edu on August 8th, 2022.

The pros and cons of online learning was originally published in MIT Open Learning on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.

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50 Pros and Cons of Online Learning [Deep Analysis] 

Online learning represents a transformative shift in educational paradigms, leveraging digital technology to provide accessible and flexible learning options. This modality has seen a surge in popularity, driven by a global recognition of its potential to transcend traditional educational boundaries. It enables people from various backgrounds to obtain quality education remotely, eliminating the constraints of geographical location. Despite its advantages, online learning also presents challenges, including the digital divide, reduced interpersonal interactions, and concerns about educational quality. This deep analysis aims to explore the 50 pros and cons of online learning, offering a comprehensive view of its impact and highlighting both the opportunities and hurdles it presents in the ever-evolving education landscape.

Pros of Online Learning  

Let’s delve into each pro of online learning to help students understand the topic more precisely:

1. Flexibility

Online learning provides flexibility, allowing students to study anytime and anywhere, accommodating the schedules of working individuals, parents, or those with irregular timings. This adaptability helps students manage their educational pursuits and other personal and professional responsibilities. It assists in organizing learning schedules around personal and professional commitments, reducing stress and enhancing the ability to balance educational needs with life and work responsibilities. For example, a working professional can integrate their studies into their routine by studying during evenings or weekends, making education feasible amidst a hectic schedule.

2. Accessibility

Accessibility in online learning, facilitated by just an internet connection, allows students from any geographic location to access quality education, thus eliminating distance and travel barriers. This feature is especially beneficial for those in rural or underserved areas. It helps by providing access to quality education regardless of one’s location, effectively removing geographical and physical barriers. This accessibility promotes equal learning opportunities and supports inclusive education, ensuring that students, irrespective of their location, can enroll in specialized programs offered by urban or even international institutions. For example, a learner from a remote area can register for specialized courses provided by universities located in major cities or abroad, broadening their educational and career prospects.

Related: How to Make Most of Online Learning?

3. Variety of Courses

Online platforms offer various courses across various fields and specialties, empowering students to engage with subjects that may not be locally available, ranging from advanced scientific courses to creative arts and languages. This diversity of offerings provides a broad spectrum of learning opportunities, enabling students to delve into different fields or concentrate on niche areas, thus enhancing their career prospects and personal development. For instance, an individual interested in rare languages can access specific online courses that are not available in their local area, facilitating specialized learning and exploration in their field of interest.

4. Pace Control

Students can progress through courses at a pace that aligns with their learning preferences and capabilities, allowing fast learners to accelerate their studies and those needing more time to proceed without pressure. This pacing flexibility helps students learn at a speed that suits their learning style, thereby improving comprehension and retention. It also minimizes frustration and maximizes the effectiveness of the learning process. For example, students facing difficulties with a complex math concept can take extra time to review and practice, ensuring they fully understand and master the material before moving on.

5. Cost-Effective

Online education typically incurs lower costs than traditional campus-based learning, with savings extending to commuting, accommodation, and often course materials, thus making education more financially accessible. This affordability helps reduce the financial burden of education, making it more achievable for a broader range of students. Reducing costs associated with online learning can also lessen student debt and alleviate financial stress. For example, students taking online courses often save on expenses related to commuting, textbooks, and campus facilities, contributing to the overall cost-effectiveness of their education.

Studying in a familiar and comfortable environment can reduce stress and improve concentration, thus enhancing the learning experience. This setup helps by allowing students to study in a preferred environment, leading to better focus and productivity. The additional benefits of personalized study conditions include an improved overall learning experience and increased satisfaction. For instance, students can create a quiet, personalized study space at home, tailored to their specific needs, free from the distractions often encountered in classroom settings, thereby fostering a more conducive learning atmosphere.

Related: Hybrid Learning vs Online Learning

7. Technology Skills

Navigating online learning platforms and tools can improve digital literacy, a crucial skill in today’s technology-driven world. This enhancement of digital literacy and technical skills is essential for the modern workforce, helping individuals become more competent and adaptable to technological advancements. The additional benefits include improved employability as individuals become more adept at using digital tools, making them more attractive to potential employers. An example is the regular use of learning management systems and online research tools, which prepares students for the technological demands of contemporary, tech-savvy workplaces.

8. Interactive Content

Online courses often include multimedia elements such as videos, interactive simulations, and quizzes, making learning more engaging and effective. This approach actively engages students, making learning more enjoyable and impactful. Including various multimedia elements caters to different learning styles and enhances information retention, offering a more dynamic and interactive educational experience. For instance, interactive simulations in an online science course enable students to experiment with concepts in a virtual lab setting, providing a hands-on experience that deepens their understanding and engagement with the material.

9. Global Perspective

Interacting with students and instructors worldwide in online learning contexts exposes learners to different viewpoints and cultures, enriching their educational experience and broadening their worldview. This exposure to international perspectives and cultural diversity enhances global awareness and understanding, which is increasingly important in today’s interconnected world. Such interactions prepare students for globalized careers and working in multicultural environments, equipping them with the skills to navigate diverse cultural dynamics. An example of this is engaging in collaborative projects with international peers, which can provide valuable insights into varied business practices and cultural norms, further enhancing the learning experience and preparing students for international professional interactions.

10. Self-Discipline and Responsibility

The self-directed nature of online learning fosters the development of crucial life skills such as time management, self-discipline, and personal responsibility. This environment helps cultivate personal skills like time management, self-motivation, and organizational abilities, which are beneficial in both personal and professional settings. For example, managing deadlines for multiple online courses teaches students to prioritize tasks and manage their time effectively. These skills honed through the self-regulatory demands of online education, are valuable assets that enhance an individual’s ability to navigate various aspects of life and career successfully.

Related: Reasons to Attend Regular College

11. Immediate Feedback

Many online courses offer instant feedback on quizzes and assignments, enabling students to comprehend their mistakes and learn from them quickly. This rapid feedback mechanism allows students to identify areas of weakness promptly and concentrate their efforts on improvement, thereby accelerating the learning process and facilitating the achievement of mastery. For instance, instant grading on online quizzes provides an immediate understanding of errors, allowing students to promptly correct and grasp the necessary concepts. This feature of online learning enhances the educational experience by providing timely insights into performance, thereby aiding in more efficient and effective learning.

12. Customizable Learning Environment

Online learners have the flexibility to create a study space that best suits their needs, from a quiet home office to a local café with headphones, enabling them to tailor their environment to their preferences, which improves concentration and efficiency. This personalization of the study space not only enhances comfort and personal well-being but also positively affects learning outcomes. For example, students can establish a quiet corner in their home equipped with all necessary study materials, crafting an ideal learning environment that fosters productivity and academic success. This adaptability in creating a conducive study setting is a significant advantage of online learning, allowing individuals to optimize their surroundings to support their learning process.

13. Accessibility for Disabled Individuals

Online education is notably more accessible for students with physical disabilities, providing customizable learning experiences and eliminating the need for physical travel. This accessibility ensures equal education opportunities, offering necessary accommodations and support and promoting inclusivity and equal opportunities in education. For example, online courses with features like closed captioning and adjustable text sizes cater to the needs of students with hearing or visual impairments, making learning more accessible.

14. Up-to-date Content

Digital courses can be easily updated to reflect the latest research, technology, and industry trends, ensuring that students receive the most current education. This constant updating keeps learners competitive and relevant in their fields, with courses in rapidly evolving sectors like digital marketing or cybersecurity swiftly incorporating the latest trends and technologies.

Related: Benefits of Online Learning for Working Executives

15. Resource Availability

The availability of resources is a significant benefit of online learning. Many materials, such as e-books, academic papers, and educational videos, are readily accessible, often at no additional cost. This access supports extensive research and a deeper understanding of subjects, with online libraries, journals, and videos greatly enriching students’ research and learning experiences.

16. Reduced Anxiety

For students who experience anxiety in traditional classroom settings, online learning offers a less intimidating environment, allowing them to engage more comfortably with the material. This less stressful and more controlled setting can lead to improved mental health and better academic performance, exemplified by the ease of participating in discussions via online forums compared to face-to-face interactions.

17. Learning Retention

Engaging multimedia content in online courses can significantly enhance memory and information retention, making learning more effective. Interactive elements like virtual reality can simulate real-world scenarios, deepening understanding and aiding recall, enhancing immediate learning and contributing to long-term retention of information.

18. Scalability

Scalability in online learning allows for accommodating many students, making education accessible to a broader audience, and overcoming the physical constraints of traditional classrooms. This scalability enables education delivery to many students, increasing the reach of educational programs and facilitating wider knowledge dissemination. For example, thousands of students can take a popular online course globally, unlike a traditional classroom with limited capacity.

19. Sustainable

Sustainability is a significant advantage of online learning, as it eliminates the need for daily commuting, making it more environmentally sustainable by reducing traffic congestion and lowering emissions. This approach reduces the carbon footprint associated with traditional campus-based education and supports environmental sustainability, aligning with green living practices. For instance, the online learning model significantly reduces travel-related carbon emissions, reducing the overall environmental impact.

Related: Reasons Why the Future of Education Is Online Learning

20. Career Advancement

Online courses offer career advancement opportunities by enabling working professionals to enhance their education and skills without interrupting their careers, thus supporting continuous professional development. This allows individuals to pursue further education while maintaining their career trajectory, enhancing their professional skills and knowledge, and remaining competitive in the job market. An example is an IT professional who can upskill by completing an online cybersecurity course, qualifying for higher-paying and more specialized roles.

21. Innovative Teaching Methods

Innovative teaching methods in online education, such as gamification, virtual reality simulations, and collaborative projects, enrich the learning experience. These methods introduce new and engaging ways of learning that accommodate diverse learning preferences and needs, making the educational process more dynamic and increasing student engagement and success rates. For instance, gamification can make learning more enjoyable and interactive, boosting participation and motivation.

22. Expert Access

Access to experts is a hallmark of online learning. Students can receive instruction from leading figures in various fields, ensuring access to high-quality education and insights, irrespective of their location. This access provides students with the opportunity to learn from top professionals and academics, offering high-caliber education and insights. For example, students can participate in online lectures or workshops led by renowned scholars or industry leaders, which would be inaccessible locally.

23. Networking Opportunities

Networking opportunities abound in online platforms, which often include forums, group projects, and social media connections, enabling students to network globally with peers and professionals. This networking facilitates global connections beneficial for collaborative learning and career development, expanding professional networks, and creating opportunities for future partnerships or employment. Through online courses, students can connect with industry experts and peers worldwide, potentially leading to job opportunities or collaborative projects.

24. Cultural Exchange

Cultural exchange in online courses allows students to interact with peers from different cultural backgrounds, enhancing cultural understanding and exchange. This interaction fosters cultural sensitivity and global awareness, contributing to personal development and preparing students for global work environments. In online settings, group projects can provide collaboration opportunities with peers from various countries, offering valuable insights into diverse cultures and work ethics.

25. Lifelong Learning

Online education supports lifelong learning by offering accessible educational opportunities for individuals at any career or life stage, thereby fostering continuous personal and professional growth. This facilitates ongoing education and skill development, enabling individuals to remain knowledgeable and adaptable throughout their careers. Online education promotes personal fulfillment and professional competitiveness in a rapidly evolving world, with professionals continuously updating their skills through online courses, workshops, and webinars to adapt to industry changes and advance their careers.

Related: Online Learning vs Classroom Learning

Cons of Online Learning

1. lack of social interaction.

Online learners often miss out on the social dynamics of a classroom, leading to potential isolation and reduced interpersonal skills. Overcoming this involves participating in online forums, virtual study groups, and social networks to build connections and engage in social learning.

2. Technology Dependence

The effectiveness of online education largely depends on reliable technology and internet access. To overcome potential barriers, securing access to the required technological resources and establishing contingency plans for technical setbacks is essential. This proactive approach ensures continuity in learning, minimizing disruptions caused by technological issues and maintaining a steady and productive online educational experience.

3. Self-Motivation Requirement

Online learning requires self-motivation and effective time management. To overcome these challenges, establish clear goals, develop a structured study schedule, and employ accountability mechanisms, such as regular check-ins with peers or mentors, to maintain progress and motivation throughout the learning process.

4. Limited Hands-On Experience

The challenge of limited hands-on experience in online learning, particularly in practical subjects, can be addressed by actively seeking supplementary practical opportunities. Engaging in internships, workshops, or lab work can provide real-world experience and hands-on skills that complement and enhance the online educational experience.

5. Screen Fatigue

Extended screen time can lead to eye strain and fatigue. Addressing this issue involves taking regular breaks, performing eye exercises, and creating an ergonomic workspace. These practices help alleviate discomfort and prevent fatigue, enhancing productivity and well-being during prolonged digital engagement. An optimal setup and routine can significantly improve the online learning experience and overall eye health.

6. Potential for Distractions

Home environments may present distractions, affecting concentration. Mitigating this requires establishing a dedicated study area and employing time management techniques to maintain focus and enhance productivity.

Related: EdTech vs eLearning: Key Differences

7. Technical Issues

Online learning is prone to technical problems. Addressing this necessitates honing troubleshooting abilities and consistently engaging with technical support to swiftly resolve issues and ensure a smooth learning experience.

8. Reduced Immediate Feedback

Delayed feedback in online learning can be addressed by students proactively requesting input and participating in platforms that offer immediate responses. By actively seeking evaluations and utilizing quick feedback tools, learners can enhance their understanding and adjust their study approach in real time, leading to a more effective and responsive educational experience.

9. Quality and Accreditation Concerns

The variability in online program quality can affect qualification recognition. Overcoming this involves researching and enrolling in accredited and reputable programs.

10. Limited Instructor Interaction

Limited interaction with instructors in online courses can be countered by students proactively reaching out through different communication methods for guidance. Engaging with teachers via emails, online office hours, and discussion forums can enhance the learning experience, ensuring students receive the mentorship and support they need to succeed in their online academic pursuits.

11. Cultural and Language Barriers

Online learning’s diversity can lead to communication challenges. Overcoming this involves using translation tools and engaging in cultural exchange programs.

12. Requires Strong Digital Literacy

Successful online learning demands proficient digital skills. These skills can be enhanced by attending digital literacy workshops, where participants can improve their technical abilities. Such educational programs equip learners with the expertise to navigate online platforms effectively, ensuring a more efficient and enriched learning experience. This proactive approach to skill development is crucial for optimizing the benefits of digital education.

Related: How to Network in an Online Training Program?

13. Assessment Challenges

Online assessments can pose challenges to integrity and fairness. Overcoming these involves advocating for transparent assessment methods and using online proctoring services.

14. Learning Style Mismatch

Online learning doesn’t accommodate every learning style, but this can be addressed by selecting online programs that provide a variety of teaching methods and materials. By choosing programs that cater to different preferences, such as visual, auditory, and kinesthetic learning styles, students can enhance their learning experience and outcomes, ensuring a more inclusive and adaptable educational environment.

15. Isolation from Campus Life

Online students often lack the campus experience, but this can be mitigated by participating in virtual activities or attending local events replicating campus life. Engaging in these experiences allows for social interaction, networking, and a sense of community, bridging the gap between online and traditional education environments and enhancing the educational journey.

16. Overreliance on Written Communication

Online learning often relies heavily on written communication. Enhancing communication with video calls and voice messages can overcome this.

17. Time Zone Conflicts

Time zone differences in international online courses can complicate scheduling. To overcome this, strategic planning and scheduling tools are essential for effective coordination. By utilizing these tools, students and instructors can synchronize their activities across different time zones, ensuring that everyone can participate in live sessions and collaborative projects. This enhances the overall learning experience and minimizes the inconvenience caused by geographical disparities.

18. Limited Career Services

Online students often face restricted access to career services. They should utilize online career resources and participate in virtual job fairs to mitigate this. These strategies provide access to career advice, networking opportunities, and potential job openings, effectively bridging the gap between online education and career development. Engaging with these resources can significantly enhance the career prospects of online learners.

19. Minimal Peer Learning

Online courses may reduce opportunities for peer interaction, which is vital for collaborative learning and networking. To counter this, students should actively form or become part of study groups and engage in online discussion forums. These platforms enable the exchange of ideas, enhance understanding through collective learning, and foster a sense of community, effectively bridging the gap in social interaction within the digital learning environment.

20. Lack of Accredited Programs

Accredited online programs are scarce in some fields. Overcoming this limitation requires diligent research to identify industry-recognized, accredited programs. Ensuring accreditation helps validate the quality and credibility of the online education received, aligning it with professional standards and enhancing career prospects.

21. Inadequate IT Support

Insufficient IT support can impede online learning, but overcoming this challenge requires familiarizing oneself with frequent technical problems and pinpointing available support resources. By understanding common technical difficulties and knowing where to seek assistance, students can navigate and resolve IT issues more effectively, ensuring a smoother and more uninterrupted online learning experience.

22. Course Completion Rates

Establishing personal milestones and actively participating in the course community can counter lower completion rates in online learning. Setting individual goals and interacting with peers and instructors creates a more engaging and accountable learning environment. This approach motivates students to persist through their courses, improving completion rates and fostering a sense of achievement and belonging within the online educational setting.

23. Perceptions of Legitimacy

Skepticism regarding the legitimacy of online qualifications exists. To counter this, selecting programs with reputable credentials and clearly articulating the rigor of online coursework can enhance their perceived value. Demonstrating the thoroughness and depth of online education helps gain recognition and respect for these qualifications.

24. Physical Health Concerns

Online learning’s sedentary nature can cause health problems. Mitigating these risks requires engaging in regular physical activities, using ergonomic furniture, and maintaining proper posture. These practices promote physical well-being, preventing the negative health impacts of prolonged sitting and screen time.

25. Emotional Well-being

The solitary aspect of online learning can affect mental well-being. To mitigate this, it’s crucial to lead a balanced lifestyle, cultivate social connections, and utilize mental health resources. Engaging in regular physical and social activities, establishing a support network, and seeking professional help when needed can alleviate the psychological challenges of online education, promoting a healthier, more supportive learning experience..

Exploring the 50 pros and cons of online learning reveals a complex picture where its advantages and disadvantages intertwine. Online education democratizes access to learning, offers flexibility, and tailors to diverse needs, yet encounters challenges like technology disparities, engagement difficulties, and questions of academic integrity. Advancing online learning requires a balanced strategy that amplifies its advantages while methodically mitigating its limitations. As we move forward, integrating innovative solutions, policy reforms, and continuous research will be crucial in enhancing the efficacy and experience of online education, ensuring it serves as a robust and inclusive platform for learners worldwide.

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Are Online Classes Worth It? 12 Pros & Cons

• 12 Sep 2019

A third of all students now take online courses . Although the reasons why vary, there are several key benefits to learning virtually—from increased flexibility to lower costs.

But online courses aren’t for everyone. Some individuals want to engage with faculty face-to-face or need the in-person touchpoints to stay on track and motivated.

If you’re mulling over the decision to take an online class, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons against your career goals and preferred learning style. To help you decide, here are some advantages and disadvantages to learning online.

Pros of Online Learning

1. you can learn on your time.

Online courses offer unparalleled flexibility, particularly for undergraduate students trying to learn a new skill outside of their major or working professionals already juggling a full-time job . You can complete coursework when it’s convenient for you, whether that’s after work or during your lunch break.

You can also schedule your learning around when you’re most likely to retain new information. Whether you’re an early riser or a night owl, you can log in whenever is the optimal time for you.

2. You Can Learn at Your Speed

Some students don’t feel comfortable raising their hand in class and asking the professor to reexplain a topic their peers already seem to grasp. In an online learning environment, you can pause videos or return to concepts covered in previous modules. You can dive deeper into a particular topic instead of skimming over it.

3. You Can Save Money

While there are many free online courses, even those that aren’t still typically cost less than their on-campus counterparts. By learning virtually, you eliminate room and board fees, as well as any commuting costs. And because there’s greater flexibility, you can simultaneously earn a paycheck and an education.

Related: Should You Take an Online Course? 9 Things to Consider

4. You Can Break Down Geographic Barriers

When choosing an online program, you’re not limited by location. You can register for a program abroad without needing to board a plane.

The lack of geographical constraints extends to your peers, too. Online courses offer the opportunity for you to engage with fellow learners from around the world. Through that interaction, you can gain a global perspective and learn how to work collaboratively with people from different backgrounds and countries— skills employers say they look for in candidates .

5. You Can Gain Practical Tech Skills

Completing an online course proves you’re comfortable with technology, which could positively impact your resume as more companies embrace remote work. Showing you’re familiar with digital tools, know how to communicate effectively, and can stay organized are all traits employers look for. And those are the same traits you’ll pick up in an online class.

6. You Can Achieve Similar Career Outcomes

There are several misconceptions about online learning—particularly that you won’t achieve the same outcomes or respect from employers that you would by attending an on-campus program. But that’s not always the case.

In a recent survey by City Square Associates , 50 percent of learners reported receiving more attention from recruiters after completing a Harvard Business School Online course, while one in four said they received a promotion or title change. An online certificate from a reputable institution can have the same, or even better, impact on your resume than a more traditional degree.

Related: 6 Networking Tips for Online Learners

Cons of Online Learning

1. you might have limited, if any, interaction with faculty.

Depending on the type of online program you choose, you could have limited, if any, interaction with the professors. Your peers may be able to fill that void and answer your questions, but you should consider the level of faculty engagement you need to feel like you’re making progress.

2. You Can't Be Disorganized

Completing an online course requires time management and self-discipline. Because you’re not required to be in class on certain days each week, it’s your responsibility to set aside time to study and work through assignments. If you’re highly organized and can commit to a schedule, then you should succeed in an online environment.

Related: 3 Time Management Tips for Online Learners

3. You Might Have Potentially Fewer Networking Opportunities

Depending on the course you choose, there could be fewer opportunities to network with peers. If the social element is crucial to you, choose an online learning platform built around peer interaction and active participation , or perhaps even offers events .

For example, at Harvard Business School Online, more than 60 percent of surveyed past participants say they feel part of a community with similar aspirations.

4. You Really Need to Do Your Research

With more than 11,400 free massive open online courses available alone, the options can be overwhelming.

As you’re compiling research, jot down the qualities you want in an online education to help whittle down the list. Is earning a credential vital to you? Do you want a more immersive, interactive experience instead of engaging solely with videos? By knowing your preferences, it will be easier to spot and eliminate programs that aren’t the right fit.

5. You Can't Always Find Industry-Specific Online Training

Despite the abundance of online courses, there are still limited opportunities for more specialized industries. But if you’re committed to advancing your career, there are business skills that can help you no matter your profession and online courses that can fill gaps in your skillset .

6. You Might Need to Fight Against Misconceptions

Although online learning is growing in popularity, there’s still some lingering skepticism. That’s changing, though; in a survey of executives, 83 percent said that an online degree is just as credible as one earned through a traditional campus-based program. According to employers, if the online program was from a reputable institution with high-quality learners, it was deemed more credible.

Weighing the Pros and Cons of Online Learning

Only you can decide if online classes are for you, based on your unique personal and professional goals and preferred learning style. For many working professionals interested in advancing their careers, online courses offer the flexibility and convenience they need to balance developing new skills with their current life stage and job responsibilities.

Do you want to take your career to the next level? Download our free Guide to Advancing Your Career with Essential Business Skills to learn how enhancing your business knowledge can help you make an impact on your organization and be competitive in the job market.

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Weighing the Pros and Cons of Online vs. In-Person Learning

Whether you’re an undergraduate, graduate, or transfer student, you have multiple options when it comes to pursuing your degree. Not only are there hundreds of majors, minors, and concentrations to choose from — there are also different ways to pursue your degree, like going to class in person vs. taking courses online. So what are the pros and cons of online learning, and how do traditional, on-campus programs stack up?

We’ll compare the advantages and drawbacks of both options in this guide so that you can make a more confident decision about which type of program is right for you. We’ll also share some statistics about online learning that might surprise you, along with a list of the top seven degrees to earn online in 2022. If you’re applying to colleges (or thinking about it), keep reading to learn why you should consider choosing an online degree or certificate program.

Should I Go to College Online or On Campus?

What are the benefits of online education.

• What Are the Benefits of Taking Courses in Person?

What Are Some Potential Considerations of Attending College Online?

What are some potential considerations of attending college on-campus.

• What Degrees Can You Get Online? 
• Earn Your Degree Online or On-Campus at National University

Is it better to go to college online or on campus? It depends on what you’re looking for in a program and what criteria are most important to you. For example, online programs simultaneously make it more convenient and more affordable to attend classes and earn your degree — especially if you’re already busy working full-time or raising a family. Additionally, an online program may enable you to earn your degree faster than a traditional program, so that you can become qualified for your dream career sooner. Learn more about how the four-week course structure at National University can help you graduate earlier, or read about how to qualify for our accelerated study option .

Ultimately, it’s up to you to determine whether an online or in-person program is the right choice — but you don’t have to make your decision without help. Our friendly enrollment counselors are here to answer all of your questions and provide you with detailed information about our online, on-campus, and hybrid programs. Contact our admissions office to request program information, or continue reading to learn more about the pros and cons of earning your degree online.

Distance education is becoming more popular among college students across the U.S., with 11.8 million undergraduates enrolled in online classes in 2020 compared to just 6 million — only about half as many — in 2019. Here are just a few of the reasons why so many students prefer online coursework.

1. Scheduling Flexibility

In a hectic, busy world, online courses offer unmatched convenience and flexibility. Whether you’re a night owl or a morning person, online classes allow you to log in and complete your work anywhere, anytime — all in your favorite pair of pajamas. Study on your schedule, without the need for a stressful, time-wasting commute.

2. Lower Tuition and Boarding Costs

Online students don’t have to pay for student housing, gas for commuting, or on-campus meal programs. That can translate to substantial savings, which is a major perk for cost-conscious students. Just think of what you could do with the money you’ll save on transit, food, and dorm living.

3. Increased Networking Opportunities

Online courses let you interact with students in remote locations all over the world. That could lead to professional opportunities you might not be exposed to in a traditional classroom setting. Online courses make it easy to be a passive participant, but for the investment you’re making, it’s much more fulfilling to take advantage of your networking opportunities.

4. Perfect for Busy Parents and Workers

Going to work or raising a family? Online courses let you build an education around your routine so that you don’t have to give up family time, hire expensive babysitters, or cut your hours at work. Distance education is ideal for anyone with a hectic or unpredictable calendar, from stay-at-home parents to busy freelancers. For example, many students attend online college while working full-time.

5. More Equitable, Accessible Learning

Another advantage of online classes is that they can open up more learning opportunities for students with disabilities, making postsecondary education more accessible and inclusive. Online courses allow students to learn at their own pace on their own schedule, which is an approach to studying known as asynchronous learning . This format empowers students to take notes, review lectures, and go over other course materials in a way that works best for them.

What Are the Benefits of Taking Courses in Person? 

We’ve just discussed how the benefits of online learning include lower tuition costs, more flexible scheduling, and enhanced accessibility for students with disabilities. So what are some of the advantages that traditional classrooms or other in-person learning environments might offer?

1. Distraction-Free Environment

A successful education demands focus and concentration. Classrooms, laboratories, and lecture halls create tightly focused, distraction-free learning environments with all the tools and space you need, so that you can dedicate yourself to the lesson — not to that annoying car alarm, barking dog, or ringing phone in the background.

2. Hands-On Learning

Not every student learns the same way. Some people are visual learners, some people like to take detailed notes, and some people learn best from first-hand experience. Additionally, there are some disciplines that require hands-on experience, such as learning how to repair a machine or perform a medical procedure. If direct, hands-on learning opportunities are important to you, an on-campus degree program might make the better fit.

If you’re thinking about attending college online, it’s important to be aware of some potential considerations to online learning, which will enable you to make a more informed decision about your educational path. Here are a few challenges and considerations to prepare for if you’re pursuing an online degree, credential, or certificate program.

1. Tougher Technical Requirements

If you consider yourself more tech-challenged than tech-savvy, online learning might pose a few obstacles due to its heavy reliance on computer programs, which can be expensive to purchase and tough to navigate. Fortunately, there are countless resources to help you master the software you’ll need to succeed. In fact, many schools have dedicated IT departments and help desk services for students who may have issues with online learning portals, as well as troubleshooting guides.

2. Greater Need for Self-Motivation

For self-paced programs, you’ll need to employ some serious self-discipline to ensure you complete your work in a timely fashion. Without a rigid class schedule to push you to attend a class at a designated time and place every week, it may be harder to reap the full benefits that distance education has to offer if you tend to procrastinate.

3. Possible Distractions at Home

Unfortunately, not everyone is lucky enough to have a serene home office or local park they can escape to. If your home environment is chaotic and full of distractions — such as screaming children, rowdy roommates, or the ever-present allure of having Netflix and video games in your direct line of sight — it might be a challenge to stay focused on your coursework.

4. Less Cooperation and Interaction with Peers

Write a new section about how in-person classes make it easy to collaborate in group projects, discussions, and small talk before and after class, but you have to work at communicating and building relationships with peers when taking an online program.

Now that we’ve examined both the pros and cons of online classes — along with some of the advantages of in-person learning — let’s complete our comparison by reviewing three potential drawbacks to earning your degree in a traditional, campus-based setting. You’ll need to factor higher costs into your academic budget, along with a daily or weekly commute — so why else might online learning be a better option for you?

1. Less Control Over Scheduling

In a traditional, on-campus degree program, you have much less control over when and where you attend classes than you would in an online program. If you have a crammed calendar, or if your availability tends to fluctuate — for instance, if you’re an independent contractor who goes through slow periods and busy periods — you might want to opt for an online program. This can grant you a greater degree of control over your class schedule.

2. Commuting to Classes

If you attend your classes in person, you’ll need to commute to and from campus. Depending on your living arrangements, that can guzzle up gas, time, and money — not to mention put you through stressful traffic jams every day. If you plan to enroll in an on-campus program, be sure to think carefully about the logistics around your daily commute.

3. Higher Tuition Expenses

Traditional students tend to have higher expenses due to factors such as student housing, on-campus meal programs, and public transit or gas for commuting.

What Degrees Can You Get Online?

If there’s one trait that online and in-person programs both share in common, it’s the sheer number of degrees that are available to students in either setting. For example, National University offers more than 45 accredited degree programs that are available 100% online, including graduate and undergraduate programs in marketing, nursing, engineering, law, computer science, psychology, and more. Use our program finder to explore the possibilities. 

Top 7 Degrees to Earn Online

1. accounting.

National University offers graduate and undergraduate accounting programs, including the Bachelor of Science in Accounting and Master of Accounting (MAcc). Learn more about how to become an accountant by earning your degree online.

2. Business Administration

A Master of Business Administration (MBA) can increase your earning power substantially. According to MBA.com , reporting on a survey conducted by the Graduate Management Admission Council, “[I]n 2021, the average starting salary for MBAs was between 22% and 40% higher than for bachelor graduates.” Earn your MBA online at National University, or build the foundation for a career in business by earning your Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA).

3. Computer Science

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), computer and information research scientists earned a median salary of more than $131,000 in 2021. Additionally, these fields are expected to grow by 21% from 2020 through 2030 — a rate that is considered “much faster than average” by the BLS — suggesting that there will be plentiful job opportunities for CS graduates in the coming years. Our programs allow students to earn a Master of Science in Computer Science (MSCS) or Bachelor of Science in Computer Science (BSCS) 100% online.

4. Education

Educators are in high demand , especially in science, mathematics, and special education. The demand is particularly great in states like California, which is grappling with pronounced teacher shortages . NU offers numerous teaching credentials and certificate programs 100% online, along with education degrees that prepare students to become academic leaders and administrators. Earn your Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education (BAECE), pursue your Master of Arts in Education (MAE), advance your teaching career with single-subject and multiple-subject credentials, or explore our other accredited program offerings.

5. Engineering

As an engineer, you have opportunities to explore interests that range from computing, mining, and nuclear energy to aerospace, chemistry, workplace safety, and the environment. According to BLS data , certain types of engineers — including nuclear, aerospace, and petroleum engineers — earn a median salary of over $120,000. Launch or advance your career in engineering through accredited online programs at NU, like our Bachelor of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering (BSECE) or Master of Science in Engineering Management (MSEM).

6. Marketing

A marketing degree, such as the Bachelor of Arts in Integrated Marketing Communications , equips students with the foundational skills for a broad range of careers, ranging from fundraising and event management to sales and public relations. According to the BLS , the median salary for professionals in the marketing, promotions, and management field was over $133,000 as of 2021, with “faster than average” (10%) job growth expected from 2020 to 2030.

Between a national nursing shortage and an aging population, nursing is one of the hottest careers you can kickstart online. The question is, which type of nurse will you train to become? NU offers a wide range of healthcare and nursing programs to help you advance academically and professionally, no matter what field you specialize in or where you’re looking to take your career. Explore our accredited programs in areas like healthcare administration , public health , nursing , and more.

Curious about these or other online and hybrid programs that might be a good fit for you? Explore the most in-demand bachelor’s degrees you can earn online — or, if you’re ready to apply to graduate programs, discover the best master’s degrees for the future .

Earn Your Degree Online or On-Campus at National University 

Online degree programs have exploded in popularity since 2020. COVID-19 unquestionably accelerated these trends — but even with the pandemic now ebbing, online learning is here to stay. In fact, the demand for online education is growing, according to research from the global management consulting firm McKinsey & Company, which reports that there’s been an “11% increase in total enrollment for [the] largest online universities” — and at the same time, a 3% decrease in enrollment overall. In other words, even with fewer students enrolling in colleges, online enrollment is still creeping upward, highlighting a steady cultural shift toward web-based or virtual models of learning.

Even though social distancing is now less of a concern, there are still clear benefits to choosing an online program, from saving money on board and tuition to gaining more control over your schedule. With all the practical, financial, and academic advantages that virtual learning has to offer, it’s no wonder why so many students are enrolling in online degree programs — or why Yahoo Finance has called online learning “the future of education,” while U.S. News has written that “online learning is reshaping higher education.”

Whether you pursue your degree online or on-campus, you’ll find dozens of fast-paced, accredited program options at National University. An early pioneer in distance education, we’ve been offering online programs for over 20 years. And with our commitment to making higher education affordable — a commitment we honor through scholarships , grants, and discounts for military students — it’s never been easier to jumpstart your future. 

Find out what an education from National University can do for your career. Contact our admissions office to speak with an enrollment counselor, or start your application today. 

Additional Sources

https://educationdata.org/online-education-statistics/

https://nces.ed.gov/fastfacts/display.asp?id=80

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18 Pros & Cons of Online Education/Learning

Aditya Shukla  |  December 9, 2020 November 27, 2020  |  Disclaimer: Links to some products earn us a commission

Home » Education » 18 Pros & Cons of Online Education/Learning

Over a decade ago, we saw an uptick in people learning over the internet. The very possibility of exchanging information and connecting with others over the internet created a wave of online learning. A consequence of that possibility was the wave of MOOCs – Massive Online Open Courseware like Coursera & Udemy. Online learning became a learning strategy, a way to flirt with different topics that are too expensive to try out in the material world, and mostly supplement “actual” learning… until 2020.

When the CoVID-19 pandemic hit the world , the promise of putting students on the internet for anything other than fun became a reality. There was no option to weigh the pros and cons of e-learning; online education became the necessary default. With 2020 ending, most students and teachers have had a beta test of teaching students via Zoom, Google Classroom, Moodle, or any other content delivery system. Consider 2020 as a test-drive for new changes in e-learning starting 2021.

What would be the possible strengths and weaknesses of learning online? In this post, I’ll outline the observed and expected advantages and disadvantages of digitizing education at the global level. Let’s look at online education from a psychological & brain-based perspective .

1. Access to variety

2. more autonomy, flexibility, & control, 3. native digital habits, 4. extended brain, 5. easier relatability, 6. easier self-expression, 7. distribution of learning resources, 8. competition for quality, 9. educational business ecosystems, 1. gateway to procrastination, 2. online disinhibition & psychological distance, 3. merging of formal & informal environments, 4. opportunities for technological & human errors, 5. high cost of transition, 6. weak boundaries & monotony, 7. lack of social connections & collaboration, 8. lack of buffer activities and time gaps, 9. cyberbullying & threats, pros and cons of online education (summary), pros/advantages of learning online.

The biggest strength of online education is that various sources like YouTube, forums, blogs, wikis, video lectures, podcasts, etc., can create variety in how people learn. That variety helps the brain connect the dots, gain novel insights, and deepen the roots of learning in a literal web of information. Variety promotes creativity & problem-solving too. Variety promotes holistic and actionable learning. It can also add an element of fun and curiosity, which naturally promotes better learning.

Gen Z & Generation Alpha value autonomy and control over what they want to learn and how much influence they have on their routines. Online learning gives students some autonomy and some perceived autonomy/control over their options. Students can work with more flexibility and even request teachers to make accommodations. They can influence the pace of learning and even change priorities.

New generation students typically grow up with more advanced and streamlined technologies. Dial-up internet turned to 4g & free WiFi. Being born in a certain digital environment makes many things intuitive and natural. Learning to read comics on an iPad and toggling between all the settings at 6 years of age set children up for a familiar, intuitive understanding of technology, which older generations might not comprehend. These environments create new habits and lifestyle choices that accommodate online education better.

The internet can be considered as an external brain for a network of humans. Humans tend to remember where information is located better than the information itself. This is where the external brain, especially Google, comes into play. Google helps us locate information. The pathway from curiosity to knowledge is what we remember, more than knowledge. Keywords, websites, navigation through forums, search filters, etc., give us a location for knowledge that we can repeatedly navigate. We could then devalue learning information and instead learn how to find information. Knowing what someone else might know is called Transactive memory. If you are clueless but you know your teacher knows better means you possess knowledge in your “transactive memory.” We know what Google might know. We have this “transactive memory” with Google, and it even has a name – The Google Effect . Combining memory for the location of information and confidence in this transactive memory with Google or anyone via DMs is a powerful advantage. It promotes solving problems on the fly, fact-checking, and solidifies memory of information with a “search & find” context. A huge map of this search & find approach can help in unexpected ways.

Current school and undergraduate students are big on relatability. With students and teachers facing similar hardships, it is easier to discuss and brainstorm solutions with compassion. It is easier to be mindful and empathetic toward one another. The emotional & social comfort that comes with relatability is often an overlooked part of educational or learning-focused relationships.

With the slight invisibility & psychological distance that the internet provides, it is relatively easier to express oneself. These expressions could be relevant to learning such as personal interests, satisfaction & dissatisfaction with learning, etc. It enables quality feedback.

Learning resources are costly in the real world where books cost 10x their e-book version. It is also easier to share learning materials and keep track of quality resources. A teacher doesn’t necessarily have to reproduce what’s already published to distribute it offline. Common authority sources can be fact-checked, shared, explained, and summarized by many for many more.

One major advantage of moving classrooms online or presenting shared resources online is the competition it creates between different learning resources. For example, hundreds of teachers could try to put up their best teaching materials on the internet that could help students all over the world. Knowing that any student could access quality resources online, teachers & content creators are motivated to supply the best content they can for everyone’s benefit. That incentivizes kinship and extra effort in online learning on top of direct incentives like higher authority, visibility, audience reach, and social standing.

By recognizing the strengths and weaknesses of online education, businesses have innovated to help facilitate. Apps & products they create tend to solve particular problems. This educational innovation boom is a business opportunity because it caters to very real needs and challenges we face. Video streaming, virtual classrooms, and note-making apps are just the start.

Cons/Disadvantages of learning online

Procrastination is mainly a problem of poor emotional regulation where we can’t tolerate discomfort caused by the idea of doing a task and delay it for something more fun like Instagram. Procrastination is far easier on the phone than on a paper notepad. Discomfort or boredom caused by monotonous screen-lecture time or compulsory readings can push students to procrastinate with the phone. Simultaneously, anticipated and unexpected experiences via social media could pull students toward procrastinating studies.

Social profiles & the internet create a barrier that dilutes reality because there is more anonymity, lesser continuous feedback between facial expressions, less-amplified consequences, detachment from consequences, shrugging off responsibility, blame-shifting, etc. It weakens the perceived intensity of negative actions, which encourages impulsive, reckless, & irresponsible behavior. Online disinhibition is one reason why people can be meaner on the internet. It’s also why students can trivialize online learning and its necessity. Students may dismiss important aspects of learning because those learning activities could “feel” weaker than their material world counterparts. For example, open debates or classroom reviews may seem psychologically distant, and that distance can dilute the intensity of discussions. That could make them more distracted, detached, and even impulsive enough to rebel against online learning.

For most students, places to have fun and places to follow academics are separated either by time or space. That separation has become blurry because students now have a monotonous routine of using a screen to have fun & learn. This may promote contrasting behaviors like binging Netflix which is passive watching right after active concentrated reading. While the importance of off-screen time can’t be undervalued, given limited options due to the pandemic, online learning has merged with having fun by taking the same space (screen) and time (multitasking).

Even though newer students are likely to be more tech-savvy than the average student from 1990, the number of small technologies and dependencies like the internet, apps, batteries, cables, logins, earphones, etc. create an opportunity for something to go wrong. Students may pay lesser attention to these potential points of errors due to domestic demands, distractions, a lack of boundaries between fun time & learning time, etc. Not getting up & preparing exclusively for school or college could lead to neglecting parts of that preparation which could potentially bring one’s attention to human errors.

Not all educational institutions, teachers, students, or parents are in a position to pay for a digital transformation as and when needed. Many students & teachers can’t afford the time nor the money needed to make digital changes. Workflows may seem simple in theory but practical implementations come with hidden costs. For example, donating mobile phones to poor students is a great start to enable online learning for all but the hidden cost is to on-board teachers and students with the changes.

Students from rural areas lack adequate network/internet facilities placing them at a backfoot since lectures take place online. Pournima Gaikwad, Assistant Professor (History)

The same physical space gets used for dining, conversing, reading, and online learning. Weaker differentiation between types of activities and environments could create monotony, boredom, and numbness. It could even take a toll on mental health.

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Social connections and collaborative work is a powerful context for learning. Online learning has reduced or changed many aspects of it. There are fewer interactions to exchange information in a shared space that allow free mental reflection or feedback between people. Offloading those to planned digital exchanges could benefit people but could also modify first impressions or neglect useful unstructured instantaneous feedback.

It no longer takes more than a few minutes to attend an online learning session. There is no travel to reach a destination for lectures. The travel, which acts as a buffer between 2 or more routines in a day, is weaker. That creates fuzzy boundaries between events that take place in a day. It also reduces gaps between work sessions that potentially allowed people to refresh and counter fatigue.

Digital interactions open the doorway to many potential malicious or disruptive attacks from trained hackers or bullies. Some cyberattacks are targeted to harass learners; some are meant to disrupt events; some are unintended consequences of poor preventive measures. Knowing such possibilities can make students and teachers feel unsafe. And that could potentially lower learning/teaching efficacy even if there aren’t any recognizable vulnerabilities.

Some of these cons affect mental health too. For example, cyberbullying, boredom, monotony, merging of environments, etc. can create frustrations and negative emotions. Those can strain a person’s ability to adapt & adjust in an already difficult environment.

These advantages & disadvantages of learning online have only typically manifested after the lockdowns began. They don’t necessarily apply to any specific type of education. Special education or inclusive education needs to consider many finer nuances that are beyond the scope of this article. It is best to consult a special educator to understand or improve online learning for people with special needs on a case-by-case basis.

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Hey! Thank you for reading; hope you enjoyed the article. I run Cognition Today to paint a holistic picture of psychology. My content here is referenced and featured in NY Times, Forbes, CNET, Entrepreneur, Lifehacker, 10-15 books, academic courses, and research papers.

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What Are the Pros and Cons of Online Learning?

Online education is trending. Massive open online courses , free virtual learning opportunities available to the public, reached more than 180 million learners in the first 10 months of the pandemic. In the fall of 2020, more than 5.8 million college students enrolled in distance education programs. 

Companies have also embraced eLearning for employee training. By 2019, corporate eLearning had already driven income increases for 42% of organizations , and its popularity continues to surge.

What are the advantages of online learning?

Online classes aren’t second-rate alternatives to in-person learning. The virtual classroom offers its own benefits, many of which aren’t available in a traditional setting.

Better accessibility

For many students, in-person learning environments aren’t particularly accessible. It might be difficult for them to get to class, hear what others are saying, or read course material from a screen or whiteboard. 

Online coursework can be more adaptable, flexible, and friendly. Students with and without disabilities can:

• Use technologies like screen readers and voice-to-text software to access learning materials
• Make digital text more readable by changing the font or size
• View lectures and discussions with subtitles
• Create a distraction-free and trigger-free environment

If you’re not sure what adaptive technologies could work for you, talk to your course provider.

Learn at your own pace

On-campus classes have specific times and places, and assignments have certain due dates, no matter what. If you fall behind or miss a few sessions, it’s hard to catch up.

That doesn’t work for everyone—and it doesn’t have to. With online courses, you view lectures and complete assignments at your convenience. You can:

• Go back and review material you’re unsure about
• Slow down or rewind lectures 
• Attempt assignments more than once

With the flexibility of online courses, it’s easier to master concepts before moving on to new ones. You can even pause a course and complete an introductory tutorial or class if you find yourself struggling with the material. 

Meanwhile, you build self-discipline and time management skills as you carve out study time and balance school with other responsibilities.

Programs at (nearly) every level

Whether you’re new to a topic or have years of professional-level experience, there are online programs available to suit your needs. You can review high school algebra or pursue a master’s degree in a growing field like data science , supply chain management , or public health .

Unmatched convenience

From high school to higher education, most in-person learning requires you to arrange your life around school work. In community colleges, students travel an average of 10 miles one-way to attend class. Commutes like these cut into work, study, and family time, and can cost upwards of $1,800 a year—more than the cost of books. 

Commuting to class also means rearranging your out-of-school life—changing work shifts, finding childcare, and so on. With distance learning, all you need is a reliable internet connection and a computer with internet access. You can learn from anywhere at any time, even when life gets busy.

Courses from top schools

Thanks to the increasing popularity of online programs, you don’t have to limit yourself to schools in your area. Top institutions like Harvard , Princeton , and MIT offer high-quality courses through online learning platforms like edX . These courses feature many of the same instructors and materials as in-person classes, but you don’t have to uproot your life to study.

Broader networking opportunities

According to HubSpot, 85% of all job matches happen through networking. In-person learning offers some networking opportunities, but you’re limited to meeting people who live near your school.

In online learning programs, including online college, you can network with a wider variety of people. For example, you might enroll in a computer science course and meet a classmate who’s already working in tech. That person could be your connection to an employer in your dream city.

What are the disadvantages of online learning?

No learning experience is perfect, and the online environment doesn’t work for everyone. Like any setting, it has its disadvantages. It’s important to know what those are, so you can decide if an online course is right for you.

Limited social interaction

In-person classes provide plenty of opportunities to interact, from pre-class small talk to in-depth group discussions. Each of those moments are important for building relationships and networking.

Online classes can’t provide as much interaction, though there are ways to build it back in. Synchronous classes, where students attend virtual lectures at the same time, may have group discussions in breakout rooms. Instructors may assign group projects and encourage students to “meet” online in their own time.

But not every online class provides those opportunities. Massive open online courses, or MOOCs, are self-paced and usually don’t allow for face-to-face interaction with instructors or classmates. Students may still be able to network through bulletin boards, discussion forums, and emails, but there’s often no real-time discussion.

This solo learning style works for some students, but it’s a drawback for others.

More self-discipline required

When you study from home, you have to motivate yourself to set a schedule, attend classes, and complete assignments. It’s especially challenging with classes that are entirely self-paced, with no set class times or due dates.

The need to self-motivate can make online classes more challenging, but developing that discipline will help you in the long run. Completing an online course shows an employer that you’re driven and dedicated to growth. It also helps you to become more disciplined in independent work situations.

Varied course quality

Not all online courses are well-designed and well-taught. Nearly anyone can design and offer a class via the internet, whether or not they’re experts in their field. It can be challenging for students to determine if a course is worth their time and money.

Your best bet is to find a reputable online learning platform. edX, for instance, works with universities from all over the world to offer stand-alone courses, certifications, and online degree programs taught by top scholars and industry experts.

Is online learning right for you?

Online classes offer a great way to further your career, train for a new one, and learn something new. They’re ideal for self-motivated people who need education to fit their lives, not the other way around.

If you’re interested in taking an online course or degree program, check out edX’s portfolio of online courses. There are more than 3,000 options, from Ancient Masterpieces of World Literature to Bitcoin and Cryptocurrencies . You never know what you’ll learn next. 

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12 Pros and Cons of Online Learning for Students

I wanted to write a piece on the pros and cons of online learning because I have had experience in both cyber/virtual and traditional settings over the past several years…enjoying both views.

I am a fan of online learning, due to the enormous opportunity for flexibility, which I believe all humans crave and need on some level

However, just like everything else, online learning has pros and cons worth sharing, so parents and students can make informed decisions about education.

Below I listed my top 12 pros and cons of online learning.

I encourage you to think of and share your own pros and cons as well. Please comment below.

12 Pros of Online Learning

1. students can work from the comfort of their own home (or any other location)., 2. students can complete independent assignments outside of school hours..

This allows for more flexibility .

3. Problems like bullying are reduced.

You May Like: Cyberbullying Intervention and Prevention Tips

4. Students can take more breaks when needed.

5. students do not have to face outside distractions that are present in a school environment., 6. students can learn with less fear/anxiety about others judging them..

Students who may feel embarrassed asking for help may be more comfortable coming forward.

7. Students may have more opportunities.

There be opportunities to take certain electives or areas of special interest classes…or even incorporate their interests into their courses.

For instance, a video game design course could assign a video for the student to watch, and ask the student to make their own basic game:

8. Students can communicate with teachers through different methods (e.g., text, audio, video).

Text: Hi Ms. Brady. I am confused about the math. Can we go over it together when you are available?

9. Students can mute their mics if they need to talk or make distracting sounds.

10. students can take an asynchronous track (i.e., only independent assignments/no need for live class)..

This can be great for some students with special learning differences such as those who may struggle with listening comprehension and do better with visual/hands-on tasks.

Some schools may require an evaluation of the student to determine if an asynchronous track is needed.

11. Student assignments can be modified to include hands-on projects at home.

(e.g., look up how to sew a tear in your shirt, then sew the tear and submit a picture; go on a nature walk and find things that begin with the letter A, take pictures and submit; etc.).

Recommended: Hands-On Learning Materials for Reading

12. Supportive school staff members (e.g., teacher, para, aid, counselor, etc.) can meet with students virtually.

Staff can meet in a small group or one on one to go over any challenges the student may be having .

12 Cons of Online Learning

1. Depending on the age of the student, a parent needs to be home at all times (or other supervising adult).

Some families cannot afford this.

2. Some students need to be shown exactly how to do something via demonstration.

This may be challenging through a screen in some cases .

This can be particularly challenging for students with more severe learning needs who benefit from hand-over-hand support, direct modeling of a task, etc.).

3. Too much screen light can be a hazard (blue light can have a negative impact on sleep and focus).

You may be Interested In: What is blue light? The effect blue light has on your sleep and more.

4. Some students need a lot of support which requires a person being physically present.

This support can be for behavioral, emotional, physical or academic reasons.

Some parents may not know how or may be overwhelmed about having to provide a constant stream of support to their child throughout the educational day.

This can be especially challenging when there are multiple children in the home or the parent has to work.

Even someone hired to work with the student may not know the strategies to support a child with special learning , behavioral needs , etc.

That is why it is so important to be sure people working with students are highly trained in academic and behavioral strategies that support a student’s growth (both online and in a traditional learning environment).

Some students participate in online learning in a daycare environment, in which the staff may not have the training or the resources to assist with certain challenges.

5. Some students love the social interaction that comes with traditional schooling.

It is important to find social outlets for online students (there are social alternatives to the traditional school environment such as sports teams, or art/music/dance classes).

6. As humans, most of us are used to in-person interaction.

In the past, it has allowed us to form deep connections, build a sense of comradery, form a family-type feel, etc.

Building a strong sense of community can add to a students’ desire to learn and grow as a person.

It is difficult to know how an online learning community would promote these types of connections, opportunities, and desires. #somethingtothinkabout

7. Many students are in need of a hands-on/interactive approach to learning.

One problem is that not all students have access to the same materials.

We need to brainstorm about what materials will provide the best hands-on experience and how hands-on activities can be implemented on and off-screen.

We need to think about which materials students may already have and what we may need to provide.

8. Some students do not have access to computers/wifi, etc.

We need to discuss how to support these students (especially if there is no alternative to online learning for them at the present time).

9. Some students have significant difficulty sitting or staying in one place for long periods.

These challenges can be due to physical, medical, cognitive (brain-based) or emotional reasons and must be taken into consideration when planning an online education for a student.

The student needs to understand what options and alternatives are allowed. Can they take breaks, move as needed, etc.?

10. Students without proper supervision or those who are not self-motivated can easily get off-task at home.

Many students start engaging in activities like watching youtube videos, playing video games, and texting friends when they are supposed to be completing school work.

As a solution, we can offer breaks – or maybe we can incorporate some of the activities that get them off-task into their school tasks.

For instance:

-text a friend or family member a question to get to know them better

-watch a video on a preferred topic and make your own video explaining what it was about (you may use props)

-make a video and corresponding three-paragraph (pretend) blog post about your favorite video game (give a 5 minute demonstration of the game in your video)

-play a math game in Minecraft Lab

11. Students may not have a quiet space to work.

Many students need a quiet environment in order to concentrate, stay on task, etc.

12. Some children may be in abusive homes.

This may be missed if they are only observed in an online environment. Students may feel they have no way out of an unsafe environment.

For some students, school is the safest place they have to go.

It’s very important to be aware of the warning signs of child abuse such as those described in the video below :

Can you share what you think the pros and cons of online learning are?

This is a topic that can be discussed at great length with many educators, parents, and others who play an important role in a child’s life!

I would love to hear from you!

Share this:

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By: MIT xPRO on August 8th, 2022 5 Minute Read

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The Pros and Cons of Online Learning—and What to Look For in an Online Course

Online Education | Professional Development

If you’re at a point in your life where you’re considering continuing your education, you may wonder if online learning is the right path for you. 

Taking an online course requires a notable investment of time, effort, and money, so it’s important to feel confident about your decision before moving forward. While online learning works incredibly well for some people, it’s not for everyone. 

We recently sat down with MIT xPRO Senior Instructional Designer and Program Manager Luke Hobson to explore the pros and cons of online learning and what to look for in an online course. If you’re waiting for a sign about whether or not to enroll in that course you’ve been eying, you just might find it here.

Pros of Online Learning

First, let’s take a look at the true value of online learning by examining some of the benefits: 

1. Flexibility 

Online learning’s most significant advantage is its flexibility. It’s the reason millions of adults have chosen to continue their education and pursue certificates and degrees. 

Asynchronous courses allow learners to complete work at their own pace, empowering them to find the optimal time to consume the content and submit assignments.

Some people are more attentive, focused, and creative in the mornings compared to the evenings and vice versa. Whatever works best for the learners should be the priority of the learning experience. 

2. Community 

When Luke asks people about their main reason for enrolling in a course, a common answer is networking and community. 

Learners crave finding like-minded individuals who are going through the same experiences and have the same questions. They want to find a place where they belong. Being in the company of others who understand what they’re going through can help online learners who are looking for support and motivation during challenging times and times that are worth celebrating. 

Some learners have created study groups and book clubs that have carried on far beyond the end of the course—it’s amazing what can grow from a single post on a discussion board! 

3. Latest information 

“Speed is a massive benefit of online learning,” and according to Luke, it often doesn't get the attention it deserves. “When we say speed, we don’t mean being quick with learning. We mean actual speed to market. There are so many new ideas evolving within technical spaces that it's impossible to keep courses the way they were originally designed for a long period of time.” 

Luke notes that a program on Additive Manufacturing , Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality , or Nanotechnology must be checked and updated frequently. More formal learning modalities have difficulty changing content at this rapid pace. But within the online space, it’s expected that the course content will change as quickly as the world itself does.

Cons of Online Learning

Now that we’ve looked at some of the biggest pros of online learning, let’s examine a few of the drawbacks: 

1. Learning environment 

While many learners thrive in an asynchronous learning environment, others struggle. Some learners prefer live lessons and an instructor they can connect with multiple times a week. They need these interactions to feel supported and to persist. 

Most learners within the online space identify themselves as self-directed learners, meaning they can learn on their own with the right environment, guidance, materials, and assignments. Learners should know themselves first and understand their preferences when it comes to what kind of environment will help them thrive.

2. Repetition 

One drawback of online courses is that the structure can be repetitive: do a reading, respond to two discussion posts, submit an essay, repeat. After a while, some learners may feel disengaged from the learning experience. 

There are online courses that break the mold and offer multiple kinds of learning activities, assessments, and content to make the learning experience come alive, but it may take some research to find them—more on what to look for in an online course later in this article ! Luke and his colleagues at MIT xPRO are mindful of designing courses that genuinely engage learners from beginning to end.

3. Underestimation  

Luke has noticed that some learners underestimate how much work is required in an online course. They may mistakenly believe that online learning is somehow “easier” compared to in-person learning. 

For those learners who miscalculate how long they will need to spend online or how challenging the assignments can be, changing that mindset is a difficult process. It’s essential to set aside the right amount of time per week to contribute to the content, activities, and assignments. Creating personal deadlines and building a study routine are two best practices that successful online learners follow to hold themselves accountable. 

Experience the Value of Online Learning: What to Look For in an Online Course

You’ve probably gathered by now that not all online courses are created equal. On one end of the spectrum, there are methods of online learning that leave learners stunned by what a great experience they had. On the other end of the spectrum, some online learning courses are so disappointing that learners regret their decision to enroll. 

If you want to experience the value of online learning, it’s essential to pick the right course. Here’s a quick list of what to look for: 

• Reputation and expertise. With so many online courses available these days, an easy way to narrow down your options is to consider courses offered by reputable institutions. Next, learn more about the instructors teaching a course of interest. Are they well-respected experts in their field of study?
• Engaging curriculum. It takes a variety of learning methods to keep people engaged and interested in learning. Many online courses stick to a standard selection of readings, videos, and quizzes. Look for courses that include practice questions, reflection questions, group-based work, simulations, polls, discussions, and other interactive or hands-on activities.
• Flexibility in content delivery and deadlines. Whether an online course is fully asynchronous or not, flexibility is a green flag. In practice, this could look like having all the assignments due at the end of the course so that learners can create their own schedules or providing suggested deadlines that aren’t set in stone.
• Feedback and connection to peers within the course platform. Interacting regularly with other learners makes a big difference. Luke and the MIT xPRO team use peer-reviewed feedback to give learners the opportunity to engage with each other’s work.
• Proof of hard work . In the online learning space, proof of hard work often comes in the form of Continuing Education Units (CEUs) or specific certifications. MIT xPRO course participants who successfully complete one or more courses are eligible to receive CEUs , which many employers, licensing agencies, and professional associations accept as evidence of a participant’s serious commitment to their professional development. 

Online learning isn’t for everyone, but with the right approach, it can be a valuable experience for many people. Now that you know what to look for in an online course, see what Luke and the MIT xPRO instructional design team have to offer by checking out the latest MIT xPRO courses and programs . 

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The Pros and Cons of Online Learning and Online Classes

Going to college is a big decision—and it has become more accessible than ever before. Whether you’re attending a university for the first time or returning to finish your degree, you have the opportunity to choose online vs. in-person classes.

Extended closures due to the COVID-19 pandemic forced most institutions to migrate to online learning in 2020. Though campuses have reopened, many students are opting to continue their studies online. According to the BestColleges 2022 Online Education Trends Report , 60 percent of remote learners are choosing to enroll in online courses regardless of whether their campuses maintain normal operations.

Upon reviewing the advantages of online education, it’s easy to see why. Universities like Concordia University Texas (CTX) give you the ability to earn a high-quality degree completely online, without sacrificing the student support services you’ve come to expect from in-person learning.

Still, you’ll have to weigh the pros and cons of online learning for yourself to determine if it’s the best decision for you. Keep reading to learn about some important considerations.

The Pros of Online Learning

When you partner with a university that is well-versed in serving online students, you’ll have the opportunity to develop personally and professionally in a format that works in tandem with the responsibilities of your busy life. Consider the following benefits to online learning:

1. Flexibility

Online programs like the ones at CTX are designed to allow busy students to continue their education without interrupting personal commitments outside of school. Accessible from almost anywhere, as long as you have internet access and can commit to meeting weekly deadlines, you’ll be able to complete your assignments in the morning, at night, or any time between.

The flexibility that online learning provides is key if you’re balancing multiple responsibilities at once. Today’s students don’t necessarily have the ability to drop everything when pursuing their degree. The freedom to complete your school schedule around the other priorities in your life can help you maintain much-needed balance as you tend to family and work needs in addition to advancing your education.

3. No Commute

The fuller your plate gets, the more you find yourself doing the mental gymnastics required to ensure you make it to each appointment, meeting, class, sporting event, or recital on time. Factoring in the commute needed to get from place to place only adds to the endless cycle of “busyness.” One of the major advantages of online learning is that it eliminates the need to commute to campus. With the time you save, you can finish your coursework sooner and allocate more time toward the other priorities in your life.

4. Strong Time-Management Skills

One primary difference of online vs. in person classes is that online students are responsible for managing their time. You may be provided with a list of due dates for assignments, asynchronous class discussions, quizzes, and exams. It will be up to you to ensure you keep up with the course load and hit those deadlines.

As an online student, you’ll need to develop a study routine that’s right for you. This will help provide you with a strong sense of independence and initiative, while developing and refining your time management skills—all of which can be directly applied to your career, improving your efficiency and productivity at work.

5. Options for every Learning Style

People learn differently. Some are visual learners, while others are avid note-takers. There are also individuals who need to hear the material to absorb it. And for many, some combination of all three is needed to retain the material. One of the undeniable advantages of online learning is that it enables you to employ the learning methods that work best for you.

At CTX, for example, students have the option to download online course content into a variety of file formats, such as ePub (e-book file format), electronic braille, audio, BeeLine Reader (which adds color gradient to text to help you read more efficiently), and translated versions. Online learners have the unique benefit of tailoring their experience to fit their needs.

6. Immediate Accessibility

Another pro of online learning is the immediate accessibility students have to their faculty, peers, and class documents. While those taking on-campus classes are typically regulated to specific class times and office hours, online students at CTX can instantly reach out to their professors with questions, connect with their peers on a project, and view all of their class documents online.

Each of our online classes has a Microsoft Teams channel where students can message faculty and classmates, share files for group work, and schedule meetings.

7. Increased Affordability

Typically, online programs have lower tuition costs than in-person programs. This is due to a number of different factors. For starters, because you don’t have to pay for transportation (e.g., gas, public transportation, etc.), meal plans, and other costs often associated with in-person learning, you’re likely to experience fewer out-of-pocket costs.

Some institutions offer a lower price-per-credit for online courses, as well. For example, the tuition per credit hour for online undergraduate students at CTX is about half the cost for in-person undergraduate students.

8. Access to Academic Support Resources

One element that often keeps people from enrolling in online programs is the preconceived notion that you’ll be largely left to fend for yourself as an online student. This couldn’t be further from the truth for online students at CTX.

It’s important to seek out an institution that offers the same quality of comprehensive student support services to online learners as it does to those attending courses onsite. At CTX, online students have access to the same robust suite of supportive resources. Some examples include tutoring opportunities, counseling services, technology help, assistance with financial aid, and accommodations for students with disabilities, such as extra time to take tests.

The Cons of Online Learning

While the benefits are clearly numerous, it’s helpful to keep in mind that there are both pros and cons of online learning, depending on what you’re looking for in your education. In examining some of the potential drawbacks, consider how the online programs at Concordia University Texas address them.

1. Less In-Person Interaction

When learning online, you can see your professors face-to-face virtually, but you don’t typically interact with them in person. Some wonder if this could act as a barrier to high-quality, interactive education.

The CTX solution:

Our online classes do not require students to sacrifice that important element of person-to-person interaction. Because everyone in an online class is required to participate, the discussions actually become much more engaging. The online environment provides a format for everyone to contribute, from the most introverted to the most extroverted students.

Many find this to be a distinct advantage, as it allows them to sort through their thoughts before engaging in the group discussion. “Online discussions provide ‘wait times’ for everyone to reflect and think of questions, which creates amazing dialogue,” says Dr. Alex Herron, the associate vice president of digital operations at CTX.

2. You're Limited to Certain Majors

Not every major is eligible for online learning, so the degrees you can choose from are limited. Some programs, especially the disciplines that require hands-on experience, simply cannot be translated into an online format.

For example, the Music major at CTX requires in-person classes. Students need one-on-one interaction with their professors to receive immediate feedback and help with playing an instrument or mastering a solo.

While not all programs can be offered online, the University does offer online degrees in a wide range of disciplines. Additionally, CTX offers all its graduate programs online—although in some cases, a brief on-campus residency may be required.

3. Increased Autonomy

Classes on campus require students to meet in person multiple times per week and finish coursework within specific deadlines. These factors work together to create a daily routine for students. While online learning also has regular deadlines, students aren’t held to the same regimented course schedule that requires them to meet at a specific time each day.

As highlighted above, this flexibility affords some undeniable perks. But it’s also true that with more freedom comes more responsibility. Online students must develop a personal routine to ensure they complete coursework on time while balancing their other priorities.

The professors in CTX online programs make themselves easily accessible and encourage students to attend optional virtual meetings. Regular check-ins of this nature help faculty gain a clearer understanding of whether their students might be struggling. “I always tell my students, ‘I don’t know how you are doing unless you tell me,’” Dr. Herron explains.

4. Technological Requirements

Success as an online student is dependent on access to a computer and reliable internet. Some students find they have to spend more money on devices, like a faster computer or one with more memory. And since everything you do for online classes is on the computer, you’ll likely encounter more technological issues that may be difficult to overcome from afar (e.g., connection problems, server errors, etc.).

To minimize technological obstacles, all of our online courses are web-based. This means all you’ll need is access to an internet browser, eliminating any requirement to download various programs and/or applications to your computer.

The University also gives online students access to the entire Microsoft Office 365 Suite (including Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and Teams) so that you don’t have to purchase the programs independently. Finally, for any issues that do arise, the Personal Support Center is available 24/7 via phone, chat, or email to help students with technological issues.

5. You Might Experience Distractions

Physical classrooms help to minimize distractions and allow professors to see if you’re paying attention. When you take online classes, you’re responsible for finding a workspace that provides an environment where you can learn effectively and without unnecessary interruption.

Online students who live locally are always welcome to come to campus. Set on 440 beautiful acres in Northwest Austin, there are plenty of quiet places to study, such as the CTX Library, outdoor areas, or empty classrooms.

If you do find it difficult to concentrate, make sure to let your online professors know. The more they know, the better they can support you.

6. Fewer Networking Opportunities

Students taking virtual classes have plenty of chances to connect with their peers through discussion boards and other online tools. But one of the obvious cons of online learning is that it doesn’t provide as many opportunities to network with the entire campus community.

Our Career Services Center , regularly posts events on Blackboard (the University’s online learning platform), allowing online students to see and sign up for both in-person and online networking events.

Experience the best of online learning at Concordia University Texas

While there are both pros and cons of online learning, the online classes at CTX maximize the advantages while providing innovative solutions for any potential challenges. Our online learning programs deliver the same impactful experience that in-person students enjoy.

Learn more in our article 3 Reasons Students Love Concordia University Texas Online Programs

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The advantages and disadvantages of learning in online classes in 2023, share this article.

Whether you’re taking a school class remotely or trying to learn a new skill just for fun – online classes can be a great option. They work well for people that can’t always commute, those who work better independently, or simply if you can’t or don’t want to be around a group of people all day. But, it’s not to say that online classes are designed for everyone either. In this blog, we’ll explore the advantages and disadvantages of online classes, as well as help you decide if online learning is the best choice for you. 

• Advantages of online classes
• Disadvantages of online classes

Are online classes for you?

Read more: Top Challenges with Online Learning For Students (and Solutions)

8 advantages of online classes

The explosion of online learning has been a fantastic shift for many people. Students who may have had to waste hours commuting to class can now attend right from their homes. And anyone struggling to take in content at the same speed as a class can now go at their own pace – in a way that works best for their learning requirements. The pros of online classes make learning a positive experience for countless students. Let’s take a look at some of the advantages here !

1. Accessible to anyone with an Internet connection 

More than 20 million new users signed up to a Coursera course in 2021, for a total of 92 million users on the platform! Since online courses are accessible to nearly anyone with an Internet connection, it’s helped to close the global education gap significantly. 

Online classes make learning accessible to those with disabilities and cognitive delays. For example, deaf students can simply turn on closed captioning (CC) to read the conversation and participate in class online. Many video conferencing platforms and learning management systems (LMS) support accessible hardware technology to further increase engagement in online classes. 

Students with cognitive or motor skill disabilities have the option to work at their own pace or take lessons when it is convenient for them. For example, if a student with dyslexia is having a difficult time reading assigned textbook chapters, they can choose to listen to it instead with an option like audio textbook versions. 

2. Flexible scheduling

A major benefit of online learning is the ability for students to attend classes from anywhere. This means students in rural areas no longer waste time driving long distances or riding the bus to get to school. Or , students who need to work to support themselves through school also have an easier time fitting both class and work schedules into their lives. 

This also applies to adult learners that may be juggling responsibilities such as children, work, home management, and more. With busy schedules, it might not be possible to make time for an in-person class. Beyond the time to commute, busy adults might need to be on standby for their children – something that is much harder to do when they’re in a physical classroom. 

The flexibility of online classes has a huge benefit for mental health. It’s been proven that job autonomy leads to mental well-being in employees . For full-time students, schooling is much like a job that takes at least 40 hours of the week. Having the autonomy to choose when and where they attend class can help mitigate common mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and stress. Better mental health leads to happier students – which is definitely something teachers, parents, and students alike should all strive for!

3. More affordable than in-person classes

Online learning makes higher education like university much more accessible to the wider population. University degrees offered online are an average of $10  to 11,000 cheaper than in-person equivalents . This number does not take costs like on-campus food or housing into account – it only reflects tuition differences. So you can imagine how significant that difference would become with all expenses accounted for! 

Learning management systems like Thinkific and Udemy are great places to look for affordable (and sometimes free) classes. Industry experts, entrepreneurs, and coaches all offer their knowledge through self-created courses, meaning these courses are often more accessible in terms of pricing while also providing super relevant and realistic course lessons. Students can go directly to the source of knowledge, rather than having to pay expensive tuition fees to big institutions .

There is also a huge amount of free knowledge on websites like YouTube. Channels such as Crash Course and Khan Academy provide high quality content at no cost!

4. Ability to connect globally

It’s possible to connect with teachers and learners all around the world with online courses. Before online learning was widely accessible , you would have had to travel to Hawaii to learn about Hawaiian traditions and cultures, for example . Now, you can join Ka hale Hoaka online school and learn right from your home. 

Even if you’re learning something that isn’t necessarily culture or country-specific, learning with people from different backgrounds can lend fascinating perspectives and discussion to the topic. With so many courses implementing learning communities, it’s easier than ever to connect with fellow students and hear different points of view. 

Read more: 10 Different Types of Online Learning Communities

5. Facilitated peer and teacher interaction

At first , it might seem like students don’t get a lot of interaction in an online course as compared to in-person classes. This can definitely happen – but there are many online courses that prioritize student interaction with each other, and with the instructor. 

For some students, it is easier to communicate through virtual mediums such as forums, discussion boards, or direct messaging than it is to speak up in an in-person class. Through these channels, they still get the benefits of group discussion without having to sacrifice the flexibility of online learning. Dr. Michelle Gottlieb, a psychologist and owner of EMDR Professional Training , also engages with her students by frequently commenting in her course’s online communities and providing advice to students as needed. Many instructors even offer 1-1 coaching sessions for students that are looking for additional learning support ! 

6. Encourages independence and self-pacing

Many online courses offer students the option to take the course at their own pace. This can take away worries that the student might not have time in their hectic life to fit multiple hours of coursework in each week consistently . Self-paced courses are extremely adaptable to busy schedules. However, it does take a fair amount of self-discipline to actually complete self-paced courses.

If students find they are lacking discipline and are unable to complete courses that are self-paced, there are online courses that put students into cohorts with set deadlines. This is a great option for students and teachers that benefit from a more traditional class structure. Instructors that follow this model will often use the drip method, a microlearning approach , to release content at a slower pace. 

Read more : 2023 e-Learning Trends Report

7. Improved tracking and facilitation

If you’re easily disorganized or have trouble remembering what you learned last week, online classes can help you in this area. Most online classroom systems will keep track of which topics and resources you’ve already read, and will point you to which ones you need to do next. It will also automatically file your assignments, keep track of your grades, and calculate your total GPA to date. In comparison, learning through a physical classroom would require you to manage a lot of papers, heavy textbooks, and physical equipment.

Online classrooms also have the ability to launch virtual labs, which makes it easier to facilitate interactive learning sessions. Quizzes and feedback surveys can also be launched through the learning management system  by the teacher, and you can see your results almost instantly. Overall, it’s much faster to see information and results in virtual classrooms.

8. Adaptive to multiple learning styles

Everyone has a slightly different preference when it comes to how they interpret information. There are generally three types of learning styles:

• Auditory learners – who prefer to learn by hearing. This includes listening to podcasts, lectures, and audiobooks. Any verbal explanation goes a long way for this learner!
• Visual learners – who prefer to learn by seeing. Animations, movies, hand movements, drawing, and writing are useful tools for this type of learner.
• Kinesthetic learners – who prefer to learn by doing, or using their hands. Any opportunity to touch, feel, build, and see something in 3D will help this learner interpret information well.

Most people have some combination of learning style, making them hybrid learners. With online classes, there are a lot of ways that students can choose to take in information. For example, a course may offer a video (appealing to visual learners) with a voiceover (for auditory learners) and instructions on how to do the science experiment with home materials (for kinesthetic learners). 

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6 disadvantages of online classes

While there are many advantages to online learning, it’s important to also consider the disadvantages. Some people may find that online learning isn’t for them, so let’s explore some of the reasons why. 

Often requires a lot of screen time

Staring at digital screens all day long has a myriad of negative effects for both adults and children. These effects include eye strain, disrupted circadian rhythm, headaches, and neck and back pain.  Learners taking online classes need to take measures to avoid symptoms of too much screen time, especially if they are already working remotely , in addition to taking classes. Some ways to prevent the negative effects of screen time include:

• Using blue-light glasses
• Taking a break every 20 minutes to look at something different
• Change up your working environment every few hours
• Avoid turning up your screen too bright
• Lower the contrast on your screen

2. Less opportunity to connect with peers

While online classes can actually be quite social in nature, the fact is that you’re still usually completing them on your own most of the time . This can be a major disadvantage – especially for students that already spend a lot of time by themselves at home. Students can combat this feeling of isolation by working on their online classes in coffee shops or libraries where there is a more lively environment . Additionally, they can sign up for classes that have thriving online communities to connect virtually with other students. 

It’s important to keep in mind that many people enroll in university, college, or even community classes as a way to meet friends. Proximity to the same people is a leading indicator that you will befriend those people – just because you see them a lot! If you’re taking classes online, you’ll miss that natural proximity and connection with your peers. It will take more effort to form real-life friendships with online peers (but it is still possible). One way to get a similar level of social interaction in online courses is by opting for a class that has a lot of group project work.

3. Harder to access technical equipment

At a minimum, students need a device with an internet connection to take online classes. Realistically, students will need a device they can also type assignments on such as a laptop or tablet with a keyboard. It’s costly to purchase these devices upfront , especially if you have multiple children in online classes who each need their own devices to complete school work. 

More often than not , in-person classes have a responsibility to provide equipment so students can participate. This keeps class accessible for lower-income students. To circumvent this issue with online learning environments, some school districts provide laptops or tablets so that students can participate even if they can’t afford to purchase devices themselves. Unfortunately, this is in no way a global solution as many school districts don’t have the funds to provide devices. This problem is even more true for students with learning disabilities who require specialized accessibility hardware.

4. Creates extra work for teachers

Teachers become teachers because they love to teach – not necessarily because they have an affinity for technology. This became extremely clear when teachers were first tasked with moving entire courses and curriculums into online formats . For many teachers, this meant lots of extra work recording lectures, moving tests and assignments online, and organizing video call live lessons and homework submission portals. However, once the courses are built, there is only a small time requirement to maintain the content with up-to-date material. 

Teachers might also run into issues with students not participating as much online and not having as much opportunity to collaborate. While there are online solutions to both of these issues, it is a learning curve for teachers to adapt to online teaching. It may take extra time to collect feedback from students in these early learning stages, but this time commitment should decrease over time.

5. Requires more self-control and harder to focus

Online learning can certainly make focusing for long periods of time a challenge. Students are no longer in an environment dedicated to learning and are surrounded by distractions like phones, delivery people , or chores like doing some laundry or walking the dog. The lack of structure means students need to be good at their own time management. This is an added challenge on top of learning that students don’t need to think about during in-person classes. 

Students may also find they run into challenges or don’t understand the material when learning online. Hopefully, the instructor has set up a way to contact them to answer questions, but if not, this will become frustrating for students and will likely cause them to lose motivation for learning. 

6. Lack of hands-on learning

Certain information lends itself better to online learning than others. For example, learning math or biology online will be relatively easier online since it involves a lot of visual or auditory explanations. However, learning things like medical examination, dental work, or even pottery or another trade might be tough because of the hands-on components. For kinesthetic learners, it might be more practical to learn in-person or purchase the training equipment you would need to practice your new skill hands-on at home.

After reading through the advantages and disadvantages of online classes you probably have a good idea if online learning is for you. If you’re disciplined, self-motivated, want to learn something that doesn’t need hands-on practice, or if you need flexibility, online learning is right for you! However, if you need lots of structure, want to learn a hands-on concept, and want to meet people face-to-face , you would probably benefit more from in-person classes.

This article was originally published in 2022, it has since been updated in March 2023 to include the newest info. 

Maddie is a content marketer at Thinkific. When she isn't zealously writing about all things online learning, you can find her glued to a good book or exploring the great outdoors.

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Chapter 10 Online Learning

10.2 Pros and Cons of Online Learning

As you evaluate whether or not online learning is a good fit for you, it helps to consider the pros and cons. Some of these pros and cons will be more important to you than others, depending on your situation, so it’s important to consider your own specific circumstances and your learning strengths and weaknesses. Here are a few things to consider:

Schedule flexibility.  Increasingly, students have complicated schedules, often juggling several part-time jobs, family responsibilities, and other commitments. For many, education has been out of reach when traditional scheduled classes did not mesh with their busy schedules and obligations. Online learning means students can learn when it suits them. Students can do their readings throughout the day in between other commitments. They can work on and submit assignments in the middle of the night if that suits them. The time flexibility literally means that students who just couldn’t take classes on a traditional schedule can now further their education on a flexible schedule according to their needs.

Location flexibility. Online learning also opens up education for people who live in areas that do not have post-secondary institutions, especially remote communities. People can study at home or in local libraries or in convenient locations that eliminate the need to commute to physical institutions. This can save students hours of daily commuting time. It can also save students substantial amounts of money if it means they do not have to relocate to attend school. This is a significant factor for many who have financial concerns, housing concerns, or have a family member who cannot relocate due to employment or other obligations. Even people in big cities that do have post-secondary institutions welcome the opportunity to forgo a long commute to and from a college or university numerous times a week.

Multi-media. Learning happens more efficiently when several modalities are engaged. It helps to see (read or watch), hear (lecture or demonstration), do (labs, practice a skill, or write), as well as practice. Often people think that learning online will restrict learning because they’ll have to read everything. The opposite is actually true. With so many options for multi-media, modalities can be fully engaged through online learning. Courses can include video clips, lab demonstrations, and virtual labs where students can dissect something over and over until they’ve got it (as opposed to having one crack at it for an actual dissection). Courses can include hyperactive web links which can conveniently direct you to websites, web articles, and web demonstrations  that add fascinating content. Courses can include high quality diagrams, graphs, interactive demonstrations, video podcasts, animations, Ted-Talks, YouTube clips, interactive digital learning games, blogs, wikis, learning objects, virtual worlds, and much more. Edutainment is a term describing applications that incorporate multimedia entertainment with educational objectives. Quality online courses have an array of possibilities that can keep the curriculum current and engaging.

Classmates. Online learning offers a diversity in classmates that often exceeds that of a face-to-face class. As you get to know your classmates through class discussions, online forums, group work, and class presentations, you will often meet people from all over the world. This allows for some interesting perspectives and a more global way of thinking and interpreting information.

Course selection. Making the decision to learn online means that there are seemingly limitless options in course selection. You have the option of enrolling in a different college than the one you would have chosen if you had to move there. It doesn’t matter how far away it is if you are learning online. You can choose courses according to price, convenience, and interesting topics. Often you do not necessarily have to take all your courses from one institution if there are courses elsewhere that interest you. If you are taking courses from more than one institution, just be sure to check out transferability into the program you are enrolled in or want to graduate from, prior to taking a course from elsewhere so you do not lose credit for the course. See Chapter 13 The BC Transfer Process for more information.

Financial. Tuition and books are often priced the same for online and face-to-face courses, however, there are financial considerations that can make online learning more affordable. Firstly, the flexibility of online means you may not need to quit your job, since you can work on coursework around work hours. (Be cautious that you don’t work so much that you don’t have time for your courses, though.) Having an income while going to school can relieve a great amount of financial burden and reduce accumulation of student loans. Secondly, you will not have extra accommodation fees or relocation costs taking online courses since you will not have to move to go to school. Even if the college or university is local, you won’t have transportation costs including public transit costs or gas and parking fees to travel to and from the institution. If you are a parent, you will likely have less child-care costs. You can also save money, since students are likely to eat out more when traveling to a campus.

Combination of online and face-to-face. It can be an option to do some of your courses face-to-face and some online. This can cut down on commutes if you choose to do online courses on certain days and work your schedule accordingly. This strategy can take advantage of the pros of both. It can also allow you to get to know instructors from a program in person during your face-to-face classes, giving you a personal connection with them for your online classes. Another use for combining formats is to take missing prerequisites online so that you don’t miss an opportunity to take a course according to your education plan. This can often save you from having to add an extra year to your education. Another pro of combining formats is that you can choose to take electives for your program online in the summer months, to get ahead on your education plan, or to lighten the load in the regular school year. There can be many advantages of taking a combination of online and face-to-face courses.

Author’s Story: Pros of Online Learning

I did a Master’s in online learning. I had an education leave from the college where I work, so I was free to travel and could have chosen to attend any one of several institutions. However, I chose to take my program online. I did this for several reasons. Since I was learning about online learning, it made sense to experience it firsthand while I was studying about it. It gave me many examples to draw from to demonstrate different learning theories.  It also gave me the freedom to travel around while I was working on it.

My program was a lot of work – to which I was committed. Even still, I took advantage of some of the fringe benefits of online learning. I spent the fall in my hometown, where I saw lots of family and old friends. Though my course load was heavy and I was working on my schooling 10-12 hours a day, it still meant that I had tea breaks with my mom, lunches and dinners with different family members and friends, and had the ability to just be around them even though I was busy a lot of the time. I look back at that time as incredibly precious. I otherwise could never have spent so much time with my mother in my adult years as I did that fall, and it was wonderful. Online learning made that possible.

I was fortunate in that I went to the Dominican Republic for the winter semester. I rented out my home which more than paid for the rent on my beautiful villa by the ocean. I kept a rigorous schedule for my program. I woke up to the sounds of roosters crowing each morning at 6 a.m. I made coffee and went out onto the deck overlooking the ocean. I did my computer work in the morning, contributing to forum discussions and other course work. I did a work out,  made breakfast, and continued on the computer. After lunch, I went down to the beach, got settled into my lounge chair, did my readings, and took notes. I went for a long swim in the ocean every afternoon.  I dried off in the sun on my lounge chair while I continued my readings. In the evenings, I went back to the villa and worked on my assignments. This was my schedule all winter. I had the odd excursion and time out with people I met there, but my time included a lot of studying and writing papers. I had an amazing winter in the Dominican and met some incredible people. I had the opportunity to volunteer at a school there, which I thoroughly enjoyed. I learned a lot about their culture. The experience was life-enhancing, and I am so glad that I did my studies that way.

— Mary Shier, College of the Rockies

Time management. You have to be very organized when you take courses online. It is entirely up to you to stay on-track. Although this is true in a face-to-face class as well, students often feel more pressure when they have scheduled classes. They don’t want to miss class or get behind. They have classmates around them talking about upcoming assignments and tests, who inadvertently pressure them into getting things done. When they know they have class Monday morning, for example, they make sure they complete the course work that is required before that class. These scheduled things are more conducive to keeping on track. Online students are notorious for procrastinating and getting behind. It is vital to keep a schedule as if you were attending face-to-face classes. Once your study times are in your schedule, don’t divert from the schedule unless it is critically important. (That doesn’t include that your friend called you up and asked you to go to the show!) You have to get used to telling people you are busy with your school work and that you are not available. Review Chapter 7: Time Management for further time management strategies.

Motivation. Motivation is another key factor for success in online learning. If you are constantly talking yourself out of doing assignments, doubting your abilities, or not willing to give it your all, this can seriously impede your ability to be successful. Some people know themselves and are aware that they don’t have the motivation, self-drive, and determination to be consistent in their online studies. They will make the sacrifices required to commit to face-to-face courses. In other words, they are willing to commute and change their schedules to accommodate their scheduled classes, because they know that, for them personally, they are likely to be more successful in their courses.

Weak readers. Online learning most often involves a lot of reading. Some learners are strong readers and find they learn more by reading than listening in a class. Others find reading tedious and lose focus. If reading is a struggle, you may want to find out the differences in the amount of reading between the specific face-to-face classes and the online classes you are interested in taking. This may have a bearing on which format you choose.

Limited computer skills. Those who have very little experience with computers will find it more challenging doing online courses. As well as learning the course material and expectations of the instructor, these people will have to deal with learning computer skills concurrently. This is not necessarily a con as they will benefit greatly, however, it would be important to allow extra time needed for dealing with the learning curve of gaining the necessary computer skills. Of course, taking a face-to-face course likely will require computer skills as well, so it is wise to gain them regardless. Likely, it will initially be a little more challenging with an online course. Prior to starting online courses, it would be beneficial to take a computer skills course at a local community college, if possible.

The social aspect. Some learners enjoy the dynamics of being in a physical classroom. They get to form a personal relationship with the instructor. They meet classmates in person and can form study groups. They can benefit from the answers to questions that others ask or from the class discussions that arise. After class, they can easily discuss issues that they didn’t understand or they can go deeper into an issue, furthering understanding. Even moral support is a beneficial perk of having face-to-face classes. Other classmates can detect whether or not you are struggling and can offer support, lend materials, and offer a much needed smile. Many people really appreciate the social aspect of attending classes and being part of a college or university where they can join teams and clubs, have a drink at the campus pub, live in residence, and develop a healthy social life. This is particularly important for young students who have recently left home after completing high school. Older students who already have children and jobs, may not necessarily be looking to expand their social lives.

The format of some online courses are specifically designed to include a social aspect to learning. The course incorporates group assignments and forum discussions. Students get to know each other even though they may all be in different locales. Other courses don’t have any social component to them. Often in these online courses, students can feel very alone as they do their courses. If the social aspect is important to you, find out how the courses are structured at the institution where you are considering taking your program.

Author’s Story: Social Interaction Online

I wouldn’t have believed that social interaction online could match social interaction in a face-to-face classroom, but I experienced it. Of course, it depends on the structure of the course because some courses don’t facilitate it in their set-up.

During my Master’s online, the courses were designed using a constructivist philosophy. We regularly had to do group work and participate in online discussions. I got to know many of the people in my cohort. As a result, I got to know those I worked well with, and those I didn’t necessarily want to work with again. As group work assignments were assigned, we had the option of choosing our groups. I went through the forum discussions to see people who I would likely work well with, and eventually I had specific people that I knew I worked well with, so we planned to work together in future assignments.

In order to do our assignments, we emailed, messaged, and Skyped often. We contributed to group documents, and commented regularly on each other’s contributions. It became quite natural to be working together with folks who were all over the world. I got to know them, we asked each other about things going on in our lives, and encouraged each other through challenging times. I celebrated with a class mate in Greece, who got engaged. I knew throughout the term that she was hoping for a proposal, and I was genuinely excited when it finally happened. I learned about others’ children and their struggles. I discovered others’ tips and tricks for fitting the program into their busy lives. We regularly had class discussions about different concepts, and I learned a lot from my classmates.

When I went to the graduation ceremony, I met many fellow classmates and instructors for the first time in person, and yet it felt like I already really knew them. I did. It was a time of celebration. Even long after graduation, I am still in touch with a few classmates. We have contacted each other to catch up, get professional advice, and even to network for jobs. The social interaction in my online courses contributed richly to my educational experience.

Exercise: Evaluate if Online Learning is a Good Personal Option

Consider the several factors above and any others that apply. Relate them to your own personal circumstance, and evaluate whether online learning is a good personal option for you. As you evaluate consider the following:

• your options
• your circumstances that affect your ability to take classes
• your strengths and weaknesses
• your best choice

Write an answer that includes the above factors and explains why you came to the conclusion you reached.

Student Success Copyright © 2020 by Mary Shier is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.

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Is Online Learning Effective?

A new report found that the heavy dependence on technology during the pandemic caused “staggering” education inequality. What was your experience?

By Natalie Proulx

During the coronavirus pandemic, many schools moved classes online. Was your school one of them? If so, what was it like to attend school online? Did you enjoy it? Did it work for you?

In “ Dependence on Tech Caused ‘Staggering’ Education Inequality, U.N. Agency Says ,” Natasha Singer writes:

In early 2020, as the coronavirus spread, schools around the world abruptly halted in-person education. To many governments and parents, moving classes online seemed the obvious stopgap solution. In the United States, school districts scrambled to secure digital devices for students. Almost overnight, videoconferencing software like Zoom became the main platform teachers used to deliver real-time instruction to students at home. Now a report from UNESCO , the United Nations’ educational and cultural organization, says that overreliance on remote learning technology during the pandemic led to “staggering” education inequality around the world. It was, according to a 655-page report that UNESCO released on Wednesday, a worldwide “ed-tech tragedy.” The report, from UNESCO’s Future of Education division, is likely to add fuel to the debate over how governments and local school districts handled pandemic restrictions, and whether it would have been better for some countries to reopen schools for in-person instruction sooner. The UNESCO researchers argued in the report that “unprecedented” dependence on technology — intended to ensure that children could continue their schooling — worsened disparities and learning loss for hundreds of millions of students around the world, including in Kenya, Brazil, Britain and the United States. The promotion of remote online learning as the primary solution for pandemic schooling also hindered public discussion of more equitable, lower-tech alternatives, such as regularly providing schoolwork packets for every student, delivering school lessons by radio or television — and reopening schools sooner for in-person classes, the researchers said. “Available evidence strongly indicates that the bright spots of the ed-tech experiences during the pandemic, while important and deserving of attention, were vastly eclipsed by failure,” the UNESCO report said. The UNESCO researchers recommended that education officials prioritize in-person instruction with teachers, not online platforms, as the primary driver of student learning. And they encouraged schools to ensure that emerging technologies like A.I. chatbots concretely benefited students before introducing them for educational use. Education and industry experts welcomed the report, saying more research on the effects of pandemic learning was needed. “The report’s conclusion — that societies must be vigilant about the ways digital tools are reshaping education — is incredibly important,” said Paul Lekas, the head of global public policy for the Software & Information Industry Association, a group whose members include Amazon, Apple and Google. “There are lots of lessons that can be learned from how digital education occurred during the pandemic and ways in which to lessen the digital divide. ” Jean-Claude Brizard, the chief executive of Digital Promise, a nonprofit education group that has received funding from Google, HP and Verizon, acknowledged that “technology is not a cure-all.” But he also said that while school systems were largely unprepared for the pandemic, online education tools helped foster “more individualized, enhanced learning experiences as schools shifted to virtual classrooms.” ​Education International, an umbrella organization for about 380 teachers’ unions and 32 million teachers worldwide, said the UNESCO report underlined the importance of in-person, face-to-face teaching. “The report tells us definitively what we already know to be true, a place called school matters,” said Haldis Holst, the group’s deputy general secretary. “Education is not transactional nor is it simply content delivery. It is relational. It is social. It is human at its core.”

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Online Learning: A 2-Voiced Case for Ambivalence

By  Steve Mentz and Christopher Schaberg

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Should we teach online? Our chairs and directors are asking us to do so, as they weigh student demand for online courses with the existing supply of face-to-face classes. These decisions about pedagogy often come in a rush, obfuscated by institutional pressures, departmental habits or day-to-day operations. What does the choice mean for students and instructors?

Pausing in the midst of the hubbub, we two professors at different higher education institutions decided to reflect on our own ambivalence about online learning and whether and how we might best venture into this still-new learning environment. For those of us who were trained to teach face-to-face classes, is it now time to (also) teach online?

Chris says “maybe.” I’ve come to realize after some stubborn resistance that I should try to teach an online course at my university. And I have one in mind. My students have been requesting that I bring back a particular senior-level undergraduate class that I haven’t taught in a couple years. It’s called Interpretive Approaches -- basically an introduction to critical inquiry from Marx and Freud up to more current readings in postcolonial studies and queer theory.

Why would I teach this particular course online, beyond just the fact of everything being on the internet these days?

Because many of my students end up working two or more jobs by the time they are seniors, and demands on their time can make it difficult for them to carve out 75 minutes twice a week to come to the campus for class. If I offered the course online, I could facilitate our spirited discussions there and even offer a generous window of optional office hours to meet with students in person to untangle the knottier passages or philosophical conundrums. Maybe those office hours would even become microseminars, with multiple students coming to hash out the readings together.

Teaching this difficult course online could create an opportunity for more students to succeed in it, replacing what can at times be freewheeling discussions with written -- searchable and rereadable -- transcripts of our dialogue and inquiry. And instead of my normal grueling passage identification and explication exams, I could create a way of assessing students that would have them writing together on a platform in which they are already comfortable conversing. Offering this course online could revamp and re-energize how I teach it.

Steve says “ugh.” I’ll probably teach another online grad class this summer, but before the process starts, I’m mulling my usual pregame regrets. Every year before I teach this class, I have the same flashback to my first semester as a new teacher in a high school classroom in Los Angeles in the early 1990s. I was fresh out of college and getting advice from an experienced colleague. “Steve,” he said to me in a solemn voice, “you can only teach them what they are ready to learn that day.”

“But Alan,” I importuned back, all earnest idealism, “how do you know what that is?”

“You don’t know” -- he smiled back -- “until you see the whites of their eyes.”

It was a joke, of course, and a playful response to my new-teacher nervousness. But it comes back to me every year before I teach online, when my only view of student eyes comes in the profile photos of the university personnel system’s electronic record. Are those even their real eyes? How can I see my students if we’re each typing alone, focusing intermittently on the present tense of black cursor on white e-page, churning emptiness into language?

Teaching at its core responds to human encounters and makes its turns and dives forward through shared human feelings. “There’s nothing I hate more,” I announce each face-to-face semester to a new room of slightly bemused students, “than a room in which everyone thinks the same thing. There is no right answer to the questions that I’ll ask in this class -- only a wide variety of true ones.” Every year I think these thoughts, feel this proleptic regret and wonder about what flashes and connections the online medium will make us miss, misread or simply not recognize.

Chris wants more. I can’t shake the feeling that the current pushes for online education are about more, and something more insidious, than providing opportunities for learning to wider audiences. While I recognize that people can be incredibly creative on the internet, I also know that using digital media platforms -- especially on a mass scale -- funnels staggering amounts of capital in one direction: toward the owners of the technologies that make online communication possible in the first place. I worry that as online education encroaches on traditional classroom space and time, it reflects pervasive trends wherein we would prefer to see people on their digital devices everywhere and always.

This is no conspiracy theory. My dentist now wants me to track my brushing on my iPhone, and my banking “just got easier” (read: less costly for the bank) thanks to a mobile app. Such things save people time and money, of course, but they also tether human activity to infrastructures and systems that often remain hidden, beyond direct access.

I’m not advocating wholesale alarmism. I mentor my students to become savvy social media users, and I just taught a face-to-face class where 100 percent of the writing took place on Amazon through student reviews. Online education is a part of our modern, media-entangled ecosystem -- I get it.

But I also wonder about the future world that online education presages. Can internet-based education foster the very ideas that may lead to an alternative future that radically revises our current patterns of being online? I remain skeptical that digital tools can be used to dismantle this economic structure that projects itself into the future as the ultimate horizon of human progress. There is no getting around this: every click generates profit, for someone. Now that I explain it this way, I guess it sounds like a case for a college-level inquiry. We’ll have to mull over this -- and in person. I think I’ll teach my class on the ground, after all.

Steve says “yes.” I remember being a bit taken aback, sometime in the late 2000s, when an academic who was senior to me and whom I greatly admire said to me, with no irony, “I love -- love -- my iPhone.” At that time, I had not yet plunged into smartphonia, but I would soon, and it didn’t take me long to figure out what she was talking about. Even for old-guy professors like me, living in the 21st century means processing emotions and human relationships through screens.

I’ve read the books that rail against the internet and its stupefying effects. They echo jeremiads written against newfangled print culture when it was sweeping across 15th-century Europe. Maybe smartphones are bad for us in the same way Socrates thought writing was bad -- because these technologies cause memory to atrophy.

But digital screens populate the mediated media oceans we all swim in now. When my students take an online class with me, they work in an electronically mediated system of communication and identity formation that they are going to be living and working in throughout their personal and professional lives.

Many of my students arrive in my classes as social media virtuosos, although a surprisingly visible cohort pledges allegiance to King Lud. In the online class, I ask all of us to build and cultivate a virtual community. Over the years, I’ve used various software programs like Coursekit.com, Lore.com, PBwiki, WordPress and, most recently, Google Classroom. I spend significant time and teaching labor thinking about community building in online space. (Community building is the most important thing I think about regarding face-to-face classrooms, too.)

Teaching requires us to fashion a community into some in-process knowledge of itself and our shared world. I worry about finding the best way to do that in the corporatized world of online learning, and I also worry about building intellectual community in the corporatized culture of the 21st-century university. All classroom conversations happen in dialogue with our wider culture and its corporate and mediated structures. We can’t go back to pristine pre-internet days, even if there are things about pedagogy, especially shared concentration and collective thinking about difficult questions, that partly resist the e-verse of constant distraction. Teaching online locates our virtual classrooms where our students live, inside the e-belly of the beast. Surely, that’s a good, albeit sometimes unsettling, thing?

Chris’s thesis: If I’m going to teach online, it will probably be a blended course, which I see as the best version of online learning. But I say this admitting my relative privilege to be able to prefer such a thing. Blended courses require investment in permanent faculty members who have offices, the ability to mentor students over multiple semesters and the like. I’m not yet convinced that my own teaching efficacy would be enhanced or improved through strictly online instruction.

Steve’s antithesis: Not every course should be the same, and sometimes things that aren’t “the best” can still be worthwhile -- even necessary. Blended courses are ideal, and so are blended programs. Our students should graduate having worked in traditional seminars, lecture/discussion courses, hybrid digital structures and fully online environments. That’s the way to prepare them, and ourselves, for the plural media landscapes of the 21st century.

Chris and Steve’s synthesis: Engaged ambivalence is the slightly conflicted way we approach online teaching. We aim to empower our students with what digital networks offer while shielding them to a degree from its problems. We don’t expect we’ll get it exactly right every time. We’ll keep trying.

Inconclusive postscript: Our educational missions and training were mostly articulated before the rise of the internet. Teaching today may require us to incorporate online learning into our practices, but we do not want to surrender our pedagogy to corporate control, monetization or groupthink.

Plenty of open questions remain about how best to extend our attention, time and energy into online pedagogy. How might we embrace the opportunities of online learning, and when should we redouble our efforts to defend face-to-face instruction?

We don’t assume easy answers or quick solutions, and we recognize that university bureaucracies have budgetary and recruiting imperatives that, while perhaps necessary for the larger system’s functioning, should not control our focus when we think about pedagogy. Online teaching requires us to change and learn, to be uncomfortable and disoriented in this new space into which we invite our students. One of the most important things about entering a new pedagogic space is not assuming we already know the things we’ll discover when we go there -- while also staying wary in the face of initiatives that are presented as panaceas for institutional health.

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Strengths and Weaknesses of Online Learning

All educators approach this new paradigm with varying degrees of enthusiasm and concern. Are you optimistic or skeptical about Online Learning? Are you interested in knowing how delivering courses online can improve your teaching and offer unprecedented learning opportunities for your students, or do you want to know what you will be up against as you plan and deliver your classes online? It is important to consider both the pros and cons of online learning so you can be better prepared to face the challenge of working in this new environment as well as embrace the new opportunities that it has to offer. Strengths or Weaknesses? You choose which link to follow first, but please look at both – it’s only fair!

Strengths of Online Learning

There are many reasons why online programs have become a popular form of distance learning in higher education today. The online environment offers unprecedented opportunities for people who would otherwise have limited access to education, as well as a new paradigm for educators in which dynamic courses of the highest quality can be developed. Here is a list of some of the major benefits of online programs:

The main advantage of asynchronous online learning is that it allows students to participate in high quality learning situations when distance and schedule make on-ground learning difficult-to-impossible. Students can participate in classes from anywhere in the world, provided they have a computer and Internet connection. In addition, the online format allows physically challenged students (and teachers) more freedom to participate in class. Participants access the Virtual Classroom through their computers instead of having to “go to class” physically.

Anytime, Any Pace…

The Virtual Classroom is accessible 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Time efficiency is another strength brought by the online learning format. Asynchronous communication through online conferencing programs allows the professional juggling work, family, and study schedules to participate in class discussions. There is no question about doing the work; just do it at the times that are more convenient. Students can access their courses at any time of day or night. Further, they have continuous access to lectures, course materials, and class discussions. This is particularly convenient for those who may need to reread a lecture or take more time to reflect on some material before moving on.

The online format allows a dynamic interaction between the instructor and students and among the students themselves. Resources and ideas are shared, and continuous synergy will be generated through the learning process. Each individual can contribute to the course discussions and comments on the work of others. The synergy that exists in the student-centered Virtual Classroom is one of the most unique and vital traits that the online learning format possesses.

High Quality Dialog

Within an online asynchronous discussion structure, the learner may reflect on comments from others before responding or moving on to the next item. This structure allows students time to articulate responses with much more depth and forethought than in a traditional face-to-face discussion situation where the participant must analyze the comment of another on the spot and formulate a response or otherwise lose the chance to contribute to the discussion.

Student Centered

Within an online discussion, the individual student responds to the course material (lectures and course books, for example) and to comments from other students. Students usually respond to those topics within the broader conversation that most clearly speak to their individual concerns. These situations result in smaller conversations taking place simultaneously within the group. While students should read all of their classmates’ contributions, they actively engage in only those parts of the dialog most relevant to their own interests. In this way, students control their own learning experience and tailor the class discussions to meet their own specific needs. Ideally, students make their own individual contributions to the course while at the same time taking away a unique mix of relevant information.

Level Playing Field

In the online environment, learners have a certain measure of anonymity. Discriminating factors such as age, dress, physical appearance, disabilities, race, and gender are largely absent. Instead, the focus of attention is clearly on the content of the discussion and the individual’s ability to respond and contribute thoughtfully and intelligently to the material at hand.

Access to Resources

It is easy to include distinguished guest experts or students from other institutions in an online class. Furthermore, today’s students have access to resources and materials that may be physically located anywhere in the world. An instructor can compile a resource section online with links to scholarly articles, institutions, and other materials relevant to the course topic for students to access for research, extension, or in depth analysis of course content material.

Creative Teaching

The literature of adult education supports the use of interactive learning environments as contributing to self-direction and critical thinking. Some educators have made great strides in applying these concepts to their on ground teaching. However, many classes still exist which are based on lectures and rote memorization of material. The nature of the semi-autonomous and self-directed world of the Virtual Classroom makes innovative and creative approaches to instruction even more important. In the online environment, the facilitator and student collaborate to create a dynamic learning experience. The realization of a shift in technology creates the hope that those who move into the new technology will also leave behind bad habits as they adopt this new paradigm of teaching. As educators transform their courses to take full advantage of the online format, they must reflect on their course objectives and teaching styles. Many of the qualities that make a successful online facilitator are also tremendously effective in the traditional classroom.

Weaknesses of Online Learning

While online programs have significant strengths and offer unprecedented accessibility to quality education, there are weaknesses inherent in the use of this medium that can pose potential threats to the success of any online program. These problems fall into six main categories:

1. Technology

Equity and accessibility to technology.

Before any online program can hope to succeed, it must have students who are able to access the online learning environment. Lack of access, whether it be for economic or logistic reasons, will exclude otherwise eligible students from the course. This is a significant issue in rural and lower socioeconomic neighborhoods. Furthermore, speaking from an administrative point of view, if students cannot afford the technology the institution employs, they are lost as customers. As far as Internet accessibility is concerned, it is not universal, and in some areas of the United States and other countries, Internet access poses a significant cost to the user. Some users pay a fixed monthly rate for their Internet connection, while others are charged for the time they spend online. If the participants’ time online is limited by the amount of Internet access they can afford, then instruction and participation in the online program will not be equitable for all students in the course.

Computer Literacy

Both students and facilitators must possess a minimum level of computer knowledge in order to function successfully in an online environment. For example, they must be able to use a variety of search engines and be comfortable navigating on the World Wide Web, as well as be familiar with Newsgroups, FTP procedures, and email. If they do not possess these technology tools, they will not succeed in an online program; a student or faculty member who cannot function on the system will drag the entire program down.

Limitations of Technology

User friendly and reliable technology is critical to a successful online program. However, even the most sophisticated technology is not 100% reliable. Unfortunately, it is not a question of if the equipment used in an online program will fail, but when. When everything is running smoothly, technology is intended to be low profile and is used as a tool in the learning process. However, breakdowns can occur at any point along the system. For example, the server which hosts the program could crash and cut all participants off from the class; a participant may access the class through a networked computer which could go down; individual PCs can have numerous problems which could limit students’ access; finally, the Internet connection could fail, or the institution hosting the connection could become bogged down with users and either slow down or fail altogether. In situations like these, the technology is neither seamless nor reliable, and it can detract from the learning experience.

2. The Students

While an online method of education can be a highly effective alternative medium of education for the mature, self-disciplined student, it is an inappropriate learning environment for more dependent learners. Online asynchronous education gives students control over their learning experience and allows for flexibility of study schedules for non traditional students; however, this places a greater responsibility on the student. In order to successfully participate in an online program, students must be well organized, self-motivated, and possess a high degree of time management skills in order to keep up with the pace of the course. For these reasons, online education is not appropriate for younger students (i.e. elementary or secondary school age) and other students who are dependent learners and have difficulty assuming responsibilities required by the online paradigm.

3. The Facilitator

Lack of essential online qualities.

Successful on-ground instruction does not always translate to successful online instruction. If facilitators are not properly trained in online delivery and methodologies, the success of the online program will be compromised. An instructor must be able to communicate well in writing and in the language in which the course is offered. An online program will be weakened if its facilitators are not adequately prepared to function in the Virtual Classroom.

An online instructor must be able to compensate for lack of physical presence by creating a supportive environment in the Virtual Classroom where all students feel comfortable participating and especially where students know that their instructor is accessible. Failure to do this can alienate the class both from each other and from the instructor. However, even if a virtual professor is competent enough to create a comfortable virtual environment in which the class can operate, still the lack of physical presence at an institution can be a limitation for an online program. For the faculty as well as the participants, such things as being left out of meetings and other events that require on-site interaction could present a limiting factor in an online program.

4. The Administration and Faculty

Some environments are disruptive to the successful implementation of an online program. Administrators and/or faculty members who are uncomfortable with change and working with technology, or feel that online programs cannot offer quality education, often inhibit the process of implementation. These people represent a considerable weakness in an online program because they can inhibit its success.

Sometimes administration cannot see beyond the bottom line and look at online programs only as ways to increase revenues and are thus not committed to seeing online programs as a means of providing quality education to people who would otherwise not be able to access it. In such a case, an institution that is not aware of the importance of proper facilitator training, essential facilitator characteristics, and limitations of class size would not understand the impact that these elements can have on the success of an online program.

5. The Online Environment

Levels of synergy.

Online learning has its most promising potential in the high synergy represented by active dialog among the participants, one of the most important sources of learning in a Virtual Classroom. However, in larger classes (20 or more students), the synergy level starts to shift on the learning continuum until it eventually becomes independent study to accommodate the large class. At this point, dialog is limited as well as interaction among participants and the facilitator. The medium is not being used to its greatest potential.

What Should Not Be Taught Online

Even with recently generated excitement and enthusiasm for online programs, it is important to recognize that some subjects should not be taught online because the electronic medium does not permit the best method on instruction. Examples include: hands-on subjects such as public speaking, surgery, dental hygiene, and sports where physical movement and practice contribute to the achievement of the learning objectives. These subjects are probably best taught in a face-to-face traditional learning environment. Hybrid courses may represent a temporary solution to this problem, thus making that portion of the course more accessible to a greater number of people who would otherwise have difficulty getting to campus. However, solutions of that sort still underline the fact that online teaching cannot satisfy all educational needs and goals. Just because it may be technologically possible to simulate a physical learning experience, this does not necessarily mean that it is the best way to teach it.

6. The Curriculum

The curriculum of any online program must be carefully considered and developed in order to be successful. Many times, in an institution’s haste to develop distance education programs, the importance of the curriculum and the need for qualified professionals to develop it are overlooked. Curriculum and teaching methodology that are successful in on-ground instruction will not always translate to a successful online program where learning and instructional paradigms are quite different. Online curriculum must reflect the use of dialog among students (in the form of written communication) and group interaction and participation. Traditional classroom lectures have no place in a successful online program. Education of the highest quality can and will occur in an online program provided that the curriculum has been developed or converted to meet the needs of the online medium.

Today is a very exciting time for technology and education. Online programs offer technology-based instructional environments that expand learning opportunities and can provide top quality education through a variety of formats and modalities. With the special needs of adult learners who need or want to continue their education, online programs offer a convenient solution to conflicts with work, family, and study schedules. Institutions of higher education have found that online programs are essential in providing access to education for the populations they wish to serve. In order for an online program to be successful, the curriculum, the facilitator, the technology, and the students must be carefully considered and balanced in order to take full advantage of the strengths of this format and at the same time avoid pitfalls that could result from its weaknesses.

ION Professional eLearning Program. (n.d.). Strengths and Weaknesses of Online Learning | University of Illinois Springfield. ION Resources. https://www.uis.edu/ion/resources/tutorials/overview/strengths-weaknesses

Capturing the benefits of remote learning

How education experts are applying lessons learned in the pandemic to promote positive outcomes for all students

Vol. 52 No. 6 Print version: page 46

• Schools and Classrooms

With schools open again after more than a year of teaching students outside the classroom, the pandemic sometimes feels like a distant memory. The return to classrooms this fall brings major relief for many families and educators. Factors such as a lack of reliable technology and family support, along with an absence of school resources, resulted in significant academic setbacks, not to mention stress for everyone involved.

But for all the downsides of distance learning, educators, psychologists, and parents have seen some benefits as well. For example, certain populations of students found new ways to be more engaged in learning, without the distractions and difficulties they faced in the classroom, and the general challenges of remote learning and the pandemic brought mental health to the forefront of the classroom experience.

Peter Faustino, PsyD, a school psychologist in Scarsdale, New York, said the pandemic also prompted educators and school psychologists to find creative new ways of ensuring students’ emotional and academic well-being. “So many students were impacted by the pandemic, so we couldn’t just assume they would find resources on their own,” said Faustino. “We had to work hard at figuring out new ways to connect with them.”

Here are some of the benefits of distance learning that school psychologists and educators have observed and the ways in which they’re implementing those lessons post-pandemic, with the goal of creating a more equitable, productive environment for all students.

Prioritizing mental health

Faustino said that during the pandemic, he had more mental health conversations with students, families, and teachers than ever. “Because COVID-19 affected everyone, we’re now having mental health discussions as school leaders on a daily and weekly basis,” he said.

This renewed focus on mental health has the potential to improve students’ well-being in profound ways—starting with helping them recover from the pandemic’s effects. In New York City, for example, schools are hiring more than 600 new clinicians, including psychologists , to screen students’ mental health and help them process pandemic-related trauma and adjust to the “new normal” of attending school in person.

Educators and families are also realizing the importance of protecting students’ mental health more generally—not only for their health and safety but for their learning. “We’ve been seeing a broader appreciation for the fact that mental health is a prerequisite for learning rather than an extracurricular pursuit,” said Eric Rossen, PhD, director of professional development and standards at the National Association of School Psychologists.

As a result, Rossen hopes educators will embed social and emotional learning components into daily instruction. For example, teachers could teach mindfulness techniques in the classroom and take in-the-moment opportunities to help kids resolve conflicts or manage stress.

Improved access to mental health resources in schools is another positive effect. Because of physical distancing guidelines, school leaders had to find ways to deliver mental health services remotely, including via online referrals and teletherapy with school psychologists and counselors.

Early in the pandemic, Faustino said he was hesitant about teletherapy’s effectiveness; now, he hopes to continue offering a virtual option. Online scheduling and remote appointments make it easier for students to access mental health resources, and some students even enjoy virtual appointments more, as they can attend therapy in their own spaces rather than showing up in the counselor’s office. For older students, Faustino said that level of comfort often leads to more productive, open conversations.

Autonomy as a key to motivation

Research suggests that when students have more choices about their materials and activities, they’re more motivated—which may translate to increased learning and academic success. In a 2016 paper, psychology researcher Allan Wigfield, PhD, and colleagues make the case that control and autonomy in reading activities can improve both motivation and comprehension ( Child Development Perspectives , Vol. 10, No. 3 ).

During the period of online teaching, some students had opportunities to learn at their own pace, which educators say improved their learning outcomes—especially in older students. In a 2020 survey of more than 600 parents, researchers found the second-most-valued benefit of distance learning was flexibility—not only in schedule but in method of learning.

In a recent study, researchers found that 18% of parents pointed to greater flexibility in a child’s schedule or way of learning as the biggest benefit or positive outcome related to remote learning ( School Psychology , Roy, A., et al., in press).

This individualized learning helps students find more free time for interests and also allows them to conduct their learning at a time they’re most likely to succeed. During the pandemic, Mark Gardner, an English teacher at Hayes Freedom High School in Camas, Washington, said he realized how important student-centered learning is and that whether learning happens should take precedence over how and when it occurs.

For example, one of his students thrived when he had the choice to do work later at night because he took care of his siblings during the day. Now, Gardner posts homework online on Sundays so students can work at their own pace during the week. “Going forward, we want to create as many access points as we can for kids to engage with learning,” he said.

Rosanna Breaux , PhD, an assistant professor of psychology and assistant director of the Child Study Center at Virginia Tech, agrees. “I’d like to see this flexibility continue in some way, where—similar to college—students can guide their own learning based on their interests or when they’re most productive,” she said.

During the pandemic, many educators were forced to rethink how to keep students engaged. Rossen said because many school districts shared virtual curricula during the period of remote learning, older students could take more challenging or interesting courses than they could in person. The same is true for younger students: Megan Hibbard, a teacher in White Bear Lake, Minnesota, said many of her fifth graders enjoyed distance learning more than in-person because they could work on projects that aligned with their interests.

“So much of motivation is discovering the unique things the student finds interesting,” said Hunter Gehlbach, PhD, a professor and vice dean at the Johns Hopkins School of Education. “The more you can facilitate students spending more time on the things they’re really interested in, the better.”

Going forward, Rossen hopes virtual curricula will allow students greater opportunities to pursue their interests, such as by taking AP classes, foreign languages, or vocational electives not available at their own schools.

Conversely, Hibbard’s goal is to increase opportunities for students to pursue their interests in the in-person setting. For example, she plans to increase what she calls “Genius Hours,” a time at the end of the school day when students can focus on high-interest projects they’ll eventually share with the class.

Better understanding of children's needs

One of the most important predictors of a child’s success in school is parental involvement in their education. For example, in a meta-analysis of studies, researchers linked parental engagement in their middle schoolers’ education with greater measures of success (Hill, N. E., & Tyson, D. F., Developmental Psychology , Vol. 45, No. 3, 2009).

During the pandemic, parents had new opportunities to learn about their kids and, as a result, help them learn. According to a study by Breaux and colleagues, many parents reported that the pandemic allowed them a better understanding of their child’s learning style, needs, or curriculum.

James C. Kaufman , PhD, a professor of educational psychology at the University of Connecticut and the father of an elementary schooler and a high schooler, said he’s had a front-row seat for his sons’ learning for the first time. “Watching my kids learn and engage with classmates has given me some insight in how to parent them,” he said.

Stephen Becker , PhD, a pediatric psychologist at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, said some parents have observed their children’s behavior or learning needs for the first time, which could prompt them to consider assessment and Individualized Education Program (IEP) services. Across the board, Gehlbach said parents are realizing how they can better partner with schools to ensure their kids’ well-being and academic success.

For example, Samantha Marks , PsyD, a Florida-based clinical psychologist, said she realized how much help her middle school daughter, a gifted and talented student with a 504 plan (a plan for how the school will offer support for a student’s disability) for anxiety, needed with independence. “Bringing the learning home made it crystal clear what we needed to teach our daughter to be independent and improve executive functioning” she said. “My takeaway from this is that more parents need to be involved in their children’s education in a healthy, helpful way.”

Marks also gained a deeper understanding of her daughter’s mental health needs. Through her 504 plan, she received help managing her anxiety at school—at home, though, Marks wasn’t always available to help, which taught her the importance of helping her daughter manage her anxiety independently.

Along with parents gaining a deeper understanding of their kids’ needs, the pandemic also prompted greater parent participation in school. For example, Rossen said his kids’ school had virtual school board meetings; he hopes virtual options continue for events like back-to-school information sessions and parenting workshops. “These meetings are often in the evening, and if you’re a single parent or sole caregiver, you may not want to pay a babysitter in order to attend,” he said.

Brittany Greiert, PhD, a school psychologist in Aurora, Colorado, says culturally and linguistically diverse families at her schools benefited from streamlined opportunities to communicate with administrators and teachers. Her district used an app that translates parent communication into 150 languages. Parents can also remotely participate in meetings with school psychologists or teachers, which Greiert says she plans to continue post-pandemic.

Decreased bullying

During stay-at-home orders, kids with neurodevelopmental disorders experienced less bullying than pre-pandemic (McFayden, T. C., et al., Journal of Rural Mental Health , No. 45, Vol. 2, 2021). According to 2019 research, children with emotional, behavioral, and physical health needs experience increased rates of bullying victimization ( Lebrun-Harris, L. A., et al., ), and from the U.S. Department of Education suggests the majority of bullying takes place in person and in unsupervised areas (PDF) .

Scott Graves , PhD, an associate professor of educational studies at The Ohio State University and a member of APA’s Coalition for Psychology in Schools and Education (CPSE), said the supervision by parents and teachers in remote learning likely played a part in reducing bullying. As a result, he’s less worried his Black sons will be victims of microaggressions and racist behavior during online learning.

Some Asian American families also report that remote learning offered protection against racism students may have experienced in person. Shereen Naser, PhD, an associate professor of psychology at Cleveland State University and a member of CPSE, and colleagues found that students are more comfortable saying discriminatory things in school when their teachers are also doing so; Naser suspects this trickle-down effect is less likely to happen when students learn from home ( School Psychology International , 2019).

Reductions in bullying and microaggressions aren’t just beneficial for students’ long-term mental health. Breaux said less bullying at school results in less stress, which can improve students’ self-esteem and mood—both of which impact their ability to learn.

Patricia Perez, PhD, an associate professor of international psychology at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology and a member of CPSE, said it’s important for schools to be proactive in providing spaces for support and cultural expression for students from vulnerable backgrounds, whether in culture-specific clubs, all-school assemblies that address racism and other diversity-related topics, or safe spaces to process feelings with teachers.

According to Rossen, many schools are already considering how to continue supporting students at risk for bullying, including by restructuring the school environment.

One principal, Rossen said, recently switched to single-use bathrooms to avoid congregating in those spaces once in-person learning commences to maintain social distancing requirements. “The principal received feedback from students about how going to the bathroom is much less stressful for these students in part due to less bullying,” he said.

More opportunities for special needs students

In Becker and Breaux’s research, parents of students with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), particularly those with a 504 plan and IEP, reported greater difficulties with remote learning. But some students with special learning needs—including those with IEPs and 504 plans—thrived in an at-home learning environment. Recent reporting in The New York Times suggests this is one reason many students want to continue online learning.

According to Cara Laitusis, PhD, a principal research scientist at Educational Testing Service ( ETS ) and a member of CPSE, reduced distractions may improve learning outcomes for some students with disabilities that impact attention in a group setting. “In assessments, small group or individual settings are frequently requested accommodations for some students with ADHD, anxiety, or autism. Being in a quiet place alone without peers for part of the instructional day may also allow for more focus,” she said. However, she also pointed out the benefits of inclusion in the classroom for developing social skills with peers.

Remote learning has improved academic outcomes for students with different learning needs, too. Marks said her seventh-grade daughter, a visual learner, appreciated the increase in video presentations and graphics. Similarly, Hibbard said many of her students who struggle to grasp lessons on the first try have benefited from the ability to watch videos over again until they understand. Post-pandemic, she plans to record bite-size lessons—for example, a 1-minute video of a long division problem—so her students can rewatch and process at their own rate.

Learners with anxiety also appreciate the option not to be in the classroom, because the social pressures of being surrounded by peers can make it hard to focus on academics. “Several of my students have learned more in the last year simply due to the absence of anxiety,” said Rosie Reid, an English teacher at Ygnacio Valley High School in Concord, California, and a 2019 California Teacher of the Year. “It’s just one less thing to negotiate in a learning environment.”

On online learning platforms, it’s easier for kids with social anxiety or shyness to participate. One of Gardner’s students with social anxiety participated far more in virtual settings and chats. Now, Gardner is brainstorming ways to encourage students to chat in person, such as by projecting a chat screen on the blackboard.

Technology has helped school psychologists better engage students, too. For example, Greiert said the virtual setting gave her a new understanding of her students’ personalities and needs. “Typing out their thoughts, they were able to demonstrate humor or complex thoughts they never demonstrated in person,” she said. “I really want to keep incorporating technology into sessions so kids can keep building on their strengths.”

Reid says that along with the high school students she teaches, she’s seen her 6-year-old daughter benefit from learning at her own pace in the familiarity of her home. Before the pandemic, she was behind academically, but by guiding her own learning—writing poems, reading books, playing outside with her siblings—she’s blossomed. “For me, as both a mother and as a teacher, this whole phenomenon has opened the door to what education can be,” Reid said.

Eleanor Di Marino-Linnen, PhD, a psychologist and superintendent of the Rose Tree Media School District in Media, Pennsylvania, says the pandemic afforded her district a chance to rethink old routines and implement new ones. “As challenging as it is, it’s definitely an exciting time to be in education when we have a chance to reenvision what schools have looked like for many years,” she said. “We want to capitalize on what we’ve learned.”

Further reading

Why are some kids thriving during remote learning? Fleming, N., Edutopia, 2020

Remote learning has been a disaster for many students. But some kids have thrived. Gilman, A., The Washington Post , Oct. 3, 2020

A preliminary examination of key strategies, challenges, and benefits of remote learning expressed by parents during the COVID-19 pandemic Roy, A., et al., School Psychology , in press

Remote learning during COVID-19: Examining school practices, service continuation, and difficulties for adolescents with and without attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder Becker S. P., et al., Journal of Adolescent Health , 2020

Recommended Reading

Contact apa, you may also like.

2 Minute Speech On The Pros And Cons Of Online Learning In English

Good morning to everyone in this room. I would like to thank the principal, the teachers, and my dear friends for allowing me to speak to you today about the pros and cons of online learning. All learning that occurs online is included in the flexible method of instruction delivery known as online learning.

Online learning helps children to learn at their own pace, cut back on daily travel time, and save money. Multimedia, hyperactive web links, high-quality diagrams, graphs, interactive demonstrations, podcasts, animations, Ted Talks, YouTube clips, interactive digital learning games, blogs, wikis, learning objects, virtual worlds, and more are all available in online learning.

Although online learning has both advantages and disadvantages, it is a great teaching tool that may enhance a student’s performance. To succeed in online education, one should select the best institution and course, keep in touch with the school’s staff and other students, and make sure that time is managed properly. Thank you. 

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• Learn English /

Pros and Cons of Learning English Online

• Updated on  
• Jun 27, 2024

Learning English online has both pros and cons but given its current demand all over the world, it is important to learn it well. In recent years, learning English online has become so much more popular. Several English apps came onto the market that are making learning easier and come with so many features. The rise of online classes has also become a trend where students are finding it easier to learn in this way. So, in the blog, we will discuss some of the advantages and disadvantages of mastering the English language in an online mode. 

This Blog Includes:

Building confidence, improving the english, cost-effective, learn at your own pace, lack of face-to-face interaction, no self discipline.

Must Read: How to Learn English Quickly

Pros of Learning English Online

Learning English online offers so many benefits making it easy for you to speak and write it well. The internet has completely changed the world for people who want to learn online. Online platforms are also enhancing day by day as the number of learners is increasing. Some of the Pros of learning English online are:

People learning English in the classroom sometimes face embarrassing situations such as being unable to pronounce words properly. However, learning English online builds confidence in you so you can learn the language without any hesitation. Online English learning provides you with a personal touch building confidence. People who are not comfortable with offline classes can build confidence by learning online.

Also Read: Best Websites to Learn English in 2024

Online English learning helps improve the language if proper rules are followed. If you want to enhance your communication skills and career prospects then learning English online is the best way to do so. You can start taking lectures through YouTube or any website for learning English in a better way. Additionally, learning English online enhances your vocabulary and makes advancements in the language. 

Learning English online is one of the most cost-effective where there are lots of sources available to learn the language. People can learn the language for free as well as paying nominal fees for it. They can use the free websites, download the apps, and watch videos on YouTube to learn English. Additionally, they can take online courses which have many features available to learn English by paying fees that are worth it. 

Students who want to learn English writing, speaking, listening, and reading through various types of exercises. It is an advanced learning experience where you can learn at your own pace. Additionally, students who take time to learn English can do it at the pace they want. The students can take online classes, do the assessments, attend the webinars, etc. 

Also Read: Importance Of Learning English: Your Key to Global Opportunities

Cons of Learning English Online

English learning in online mode is continuously growing day by day as more learners are joining this learning mode. Learning English online not only has advantages but it also has some disadvantages as well. Here, we will delve into some of the cons of learning English online that you will face in your journey.

When you are learning English online one thing you miss is the lack of face-to-face interaction. The experience offline classes are different where the teacher interacts face to face and understands that you are getting what they are teaching. Attending classes, making notes, and asking doubts are the things that you miss in online classes. Attending classes offline gave a clearer view to the teacher that you are attentive and focussing on your studies. 

Learning English online can lead to isolation in the lives of learners as there is no interaction between the students who are learning along with you. People just learn and leave the classes. However, in offline English learning, you are studying along with learners interacting with them, and making some new friends. Online classes are a good way of learning but end up isolating the students.  

Learning English online does not have teachers monitoring you all the time as it happens offline. Students cannot learn discipline in online classes making them lack it in various ways. In offline classes, the teacher monitors you so that you can learn things other than studying English. The students in the online classes take them just for the sake of showing that they are studying. However, they do other activities and get distracted easily as there is no one to monitor them. 

Learning English online creates boredom as there is nobody near you by which you can discuss things as like in the offline classes. There are several friends and mates there when you are attending an offline class while there is no one in the online one. In the classroom, you can have interactive sessions and discussions that make it more interesting which is not available in online classes. However, you can make the online classes more interesting by focusing on achieving your goals. 

Related Reads on Learn English

An advantage of learning English online is that you can learn at your own pace as per the requirement. However, it is a disadvantage that leaves you in isolation as you take classes alone. 

Learning English online is good as it helps you to learn and grow. You can learn from whichever teachers you want to become better in the language. 

You can learn to speak English through native speakers and improve your speaking skills. In offline you can interact with teachers and learn in a fun manner. 

This was all about the pros and cons of learning English Online . Hope you understand the concept and know how to proceed. You can also follow the Learn English page of Leverage Edu for more exciting and informative blogs related to grammar.

Shivendra Yadav

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The Double-Edged Sword of AI Deepfakes: Implications and Innovations

• Written by Karin Kelley
• Updated on June 24, 2024

In an era where technological innovation leaps forward at breakneck speed, few developments have sparked as much intrigue and concern as deepfake AI. These sophisticated digital creations blend artificial intelligence and machine learning to craft videos and audio recordings that are startlingly realistic.

While deepfakes have positive applications in entertainment and education, their potential for misuse in spreading misinformation and committing fraud poses significant ethical and legal challenges. The blog underscores the critical need for AI professionals to develop and implement sophisticated detection and defense mechanisms to combat the misuse of deepfakes. It explores various industry efforts and the development of tools designed to identify and mitigate the risks associated with deepfake technology. It also shares an online AI and machine learning bootcamp professionals can take to gain the skills required to ensure the ethical use of this technology.

Let’s get started!

What are Deepfakes?

The term “deepfake” is a fusion of “deep learning” and “fake,” referring to artificial intelligence systems that generate convincingly realistic yet entirely synthetic audio and video clips. Deep learning algorithms, a subset of AI, mimic human brain functions to analyze patterns in data, learning how to replicate behaviors, speech, and likenesses with high accuracy. This technology can create or alter content in a way that is often indistinguishable from authentic media.

Also Read: Machine Learning in Healthcare: Applications, Use Cases, and Careers

How Is Deepfake Created, and How Are They Being Used?

Creating a deepfake involves training a computer model on a data set of images and sounds to understand how a target person looks and speaks from multiple angles. The more comprehensive the dataset, the more convincing the deepfake. This process typically uses a method known as Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs), where two models work against each other: one generates the fake, and the other attempts to detect its fakeness, continuously improving until the fake passes as real.

Deepfakes have found a variety of applications. In the entertainment industry, they are used to de-age actors, resurrect deceased celebrities in films, or enhance the dubbing of foreign media by altering a speaker’s mouth movements to match the target language seamlessly. In journalism, deepfake technology can recreate realistic scenarios or speeches for educational or training purposes. However, its darker uses include creating false narratives in political propaganda, fraudulent activities, and even non-consensual synthetic pornography, raising significant legal and ethical issues.

Methods of Detecting and Defending Against Deepfakes

As deepfake technology evolves, so do the methods to detect and combat them. Early detection methods focused on visual cues: unnatural blink rates, odd lip movements, or inconsistent lighting. However, as deepfakes become more sophisticated, these physical discrepancies are diminishing.

Today, detection techniques involve more advanced AI systems trained to pick out anomalies imperceptible to the human eye. These include inconsistencies in pixel patterns, color hues, or audio discrepancies. Additionally, blockchain technology can be used to verify the authenticity of digital media, providing a tamper-proof record of the original content that can help distinguish real from counterfeit media.

Also Read: What is Machine Learning? A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners

Examples of Deepfakes and Misinformation

One of the most notable examples of deepfakes was a video of former U.S. President Barack Obama, created by researchers at the University of Washington in 2017, showing him voicing words he never actually spoke. More recently, a deepfake of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky circulated, wherein he purportedly asked Ukrainian troops to surrender to Russian forces, a dangerous use of the technology in a geopolitical crisis.

What Industries Are Doing to Detect Deepfakes

Various industries are rallying to address the challenges posed by deepfakes. The media and entertainment sectors are at the forefront, developing technologies to ensure the authenticity of their content. Some social media platforms are also investing in technology to flag and remove deepfake content that violates their terms of service, especially if it’s intended to mislead or harm users. Yet, there’s still way more work to do on that front.

Financial institutions are equally concerned, as deepfakes could facilitate identity theft and fraud. These organizations are enhancing their verification processes to incorporate biometric data that can distinguish real human traits from AI-generated fakes.

Common Tools to Detect Deepfakes

Several tools and initiatives are available to help detect deepfakes. Microsoft’s Video Authenticator can analyze a video file and provide a score indicating the likelihood of the media being altered. Startups like Deeptrace and Sensity offer detection services that scan the internet for deepfake videos alerting clients about potential fakes involving their brands or personas.

Also Read: Machine Learning Interview Questions & Answers

Wrapping Up

As deepfake technology continues to develop, it presents a paradox of potential benefits and significant risks. The ability to create hyper-realistic media has exciting applications in many fields but also poses a formidable threat regarding misinformation and fraud. Moving forward, it will be crucial for technology developers, lawmakers, and the general public to collaborate on establishing norms and regulations that harness the benefits of deepfake AI while safeguarding against its dangers. This balanced approach will ensure that this powerful technology enhances our digital experiences rather than undermine them.

Are You Interested in a Career in AI and Machine Learning?

It’s no secret that AI is revolutionizing how we live and work today, and it happened way faster than many expected. While many are worried about AI replacing human jobs (which is true for some roles), there is an unprecedented need for AI and machine learning professionals to manage its inevitable, practical, safe, and ethical adoption. On top of that, people in all organizational roles will need to understand this technology.

You can get ahead of the curve by taking a comprehensive AI and machine learning program that will train you with the latest concepts, skills, and tools to be a part of the future. Check it out!

You might also like to read:

How to Become an AI Architect: A Beginner’s Guide

How to Become a Robotics Engineer? A Comprehensive Guide

Machine Learning Engineer Job Description – A Beginner’s Guide

How To Start a Career in AI and Machine Learning

Career Guide: How to Become an AI Engineer

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