3 Benefits & Challenges of Online Learning + 3 Questions To Know If Its Right For You

There are many benefits and challenges of online learning.

Education worldwide has moved from textbooks and written words to distance learning and Zoom-oriented classrooms. As of 2021, 61% of undergraduate students in the US are enrolled in some type of online learning course, a 25% increase from 2019, when only 36% were enrolled in online learning.

Technology-based learning has become the new norm within education. Teachers are now being encouraged to deliver instruction to students using wireless communication services, both synchronously and asynchronously.

Yet COVID has taught us that while online learning may have been a godsend for some, it left other students behind, leaving us all reeling from its aftereffects.

What are the benefits of online learning? Do they outweigh the challenges, and is that right for you?

In today’s article, we will explore both sides of the issue in hopes of helping you find the answers you need.

Let’s get started. 

What Is Online Learning? 

Online learning, also commonly referred to as distance learning, is the delivery of educational content and instruction through the internet. This type of learning applies to all grades, from elementary school to fourth-year college students. Online learning can be present in many forms, such as communication software like Zoom or Skype, web-based video courses, or even self-paced learning programs. Students all across the globe are not exploring their education options beyond the traditional classroom, and can now earn their degree from the comfort of their own home. In 2020, 84% of undergraduate students saw their classes moved to online-based learning due to COVID. Since then, online learning has maintained a dominant presence within all facets of education. 

Pros of Online Learning 

• Flexibility – Probably the most obvious reason students turn to online learning is because of the amount of flexibility distance-based learning offers them. Online courses allow students to create their own schedule which fits their own pace. They can access course materials and complete assignments at whatever time is convenient for them without the feeling of being rushed.  In asynchronous courses, students are allowed to work at their own pace and spend as much time as they need on each lesson without the feeling of falling behind. Financial flexibility is also available, as most institutions’ online courses are traditionally less expensive than in-person classes, and are a great option for those with other demanding responsibilities beyond the classroom. 
• Access to Resources – Online learning offers students from all over the world access to the best education from the comfort of their own homes. In some communities, students may have limited access to specific programs and courses, while online learning allows them to take classes from anywhere in the world. A person looking to earn their bachelor’s degree in California can now access an education from one of the best schools in New York at the click of a button. Colleges are no longer requiring students to be physically on campus to access educational resources. 

• Interactive Environment – Online education has been proven to create a more engaging and interactive environment. Especially for those who consider themselves introverted learners, online learning allows for a more comfortable setting, encouraging students to answer questions and raise their hands. Shy students are more likely to speak up in class and boost their skills in multiple directions through online education courses because the anxiety of a judgemental learning environment is reduced. Instructors of online classes have seen a major improvement in meaningful discussions on important topics from known quiet students, as well as participation, and overall academic performance. 

Challenges of Online Learning 

• Equity & Accessibility – Online learning, though helpful to those who need more flexibility in their academic schedules, can face some technical and accessibility issues. A person enrolled in an online course is required to have access to a computer and working internet, a privilege not every person has. In-person classes often have access to resources such as laboratories or studios that online courses are unable to provide. Overall, if teaching an online course, instructors need to understand that not all students have the same access to technology as others.  Also, some students may not be as technology savvy and may find certain software or programs to be confusing. 

• Lack of Motivation – Since students are not required to sit in a classroom or interact with their instructor/classmates in person, online learning requires a high level of self-motivation. It’s easy for online students to fall behind on work, forget to watch or attend online lectures, or be engaged with the course as a whole. Online classes, especially those where attendance and participation are not factored into a student’s grade ultimately cause students to be frequently absent, or stop showing up at all. The class no longer becomes a priority, and the motivation to try and engage with the course material goes away rather quickly. 

• The Challenge of Class Participation – Since students and instructors in online classes hardly get to know each other, it can be difficult to create an interactive environment. Especially if students took the course as a way to escape a traditional classroom setting, teachers may struggle to get those students to participate in lessons. Online learning does not offer the same level of interaction that in-person courses do. Teachers in online courses are unable to make personal connections with students and understand their learning abilities. Students are more likely to fall behind and find the material more challenging in online courses, eventually leading to a decline in participation.  

What Does Research Say About Online Learning? 

Though online learning offers numerous benefits, it has proven to not be an effective alternative to in-person learning. Here is what researchers have found:

• Classroom learning has been proven to motivate students more than online setting, while also being viewed as a more interactive environment. 
• Students enrolled in in-person classes had a higher accuracy rate in solving problems than online students.
•  Online courses can range in size, with some being limited to only a few students, while others can be open globally to thousands of people worldwide.
•  Online courses may benefit those who consider themselves shy or introverted, but the majority of students don’t identify this way when learning. 

Is Online Learning For You? 

Online learning is not for everyone.

It can benefit the introverted learner but is difficult for those who thrive on class engagement and participation. Someone with a weaker academic background may want to ditch online courses for a more traditional experience.

Even so, how a student thrives in an online course is solely based on the individual, and determining if online learning is right for you is a journey within itself.

Here are some things to consider while making your decision:

1. What are your personality strengths and weaknesses? Are you a self-starter, or do you need accountability? Are you introverted or extroverted?
2. Do you have accessibility concerns?
3. What are your financial and time restraints?

By answering these questions honestly, you can make the choice that best suits your learning style and life stage. There is no better time than the present to start your learning journey; whether in person or online, education can unlock the future of your dreams.

Which will you choose today?

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