The continuing educational evolution has been fast-tracked by the dawning of the internet era. These days, there is simply no reason for one to not be able to complete his education because a majority of schools, colleges, and universities now offer online classes for anybody willing to invest the time and effort into it. At present, the online student population is comprised mostly of professionals and executives who attend advanced studies such as master’s or advanced training courses to have a chance to get promoted at work or even change their career path. Although classes of these type seem to be breeze subjects, the truth is that these courses are harder to accomplish because it takes a different kind of commitment to one’s education before he can get his degree certification. In an online class, a student can only achieve success if he is committed to time management, balancing personal obligations, finding an ideal study environment, asking questions, and applying more effort to completing the course requirements.
The student needs to know how to apply time management to his online classes because these classes tend to have an open schedule during the week. This means a particular class can be attended by the student online during any of the scheduled class times. This shows the dedication of the student and his proactive stance in terms of his educational goals. but how does the student learn to properly manage his time? First of all, the student must decide upon what time of the day he feels he will be most relaxed and in a conducive learning atmosphere. Will you attend the class in the morning or at night? The time you attend the class has to coincide with the time of day when your brain is also most receptive to the information it receives. Once you have decided upon these factors, create your daily schedule around it. Never allow anything to interrupt your class hour. Remember, online classes also require several attendance days or you will be dropped from the roster just like in an actual school.
Since we live in a world where everybody seems to be multitasking for one reason or another, online classes allow the student to attend class the minute he has time to spare. However, this could also mean losing some of the much valued personal time in the process. However, provided that you know how to balance your time, you should be able to find a pocket of time to study before or after providing yourself with rest time.
Finding the ideal study environment is also the responsibility of the student. You can study using your personal preference this way. Either in complete silence or with some background music to help get the creative juices flowing. Just make sure that there is the least amount of distractions in the study area you choose. You will also have to budget your own study time within your daily schedule.
Don’t forget that online classrooms also function the same way as a real classroom so don’t be afraid to ask questions. Make ample use of the instructional support systems such as emails to your teacher, online chatrooms, and even forums where you can exchange ideas and information with other students.
Finally, make sure that you are committed to applying yourself 100 percent to this undertaking. Putting in the extra effort will pay off as you discover that this type of education allows you to learn more through self-discovery and a free flow exchange of ideas that tend to be limited in classrooms.
By following these easy steps, there is absolutely no reason why one should fail an online class.
Classroom learning is a traditional way of teaching and studying. It has been used for many years and is still a popular method of learning. However, with the invention of the Internet, online learning has become a common option for students around the world. The COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic has caused all educational institutions to change to distance learning without classroom training. Thus, online learning is a flexible and efficient means of acquiring knowledge.
Arguments for Online Learning
Distance education provides a unique opportunity to adjust the pace of learning for students depending on their needs. It is because, most often, there is a predictable and calm atmosphere at home, and children develop their rhythm and adhere to it without additional disturbances. For example, some students may take more time to solve math equations but are quick to write French assignments (Schneider and Council 389). Thus, they can use the extra time to study another topic or school subject in depth. Instead, students have identical opportunities in the classroom independently of their abilities and experiences.
Nevertheless, when something is unclear at school, children ask the teacher to explain the material again. This is not a problem online, and learners can listen to a lesson or part of it as many times as necessary to consolidate their knowledge. Moreover, tests that can be taken more than once work for constant repetition of what has been learned (Schneider, and Council 389). In addition, the student can return to the material presented in the online format at any time to refresh the memory of specific dates, facts, and rules. It is especially convenient to do this if these materials are in the form of slides, presentations, or audio format when it is possible to return to any second of the lecture.
Argument Against Online Learning
It is important to mention that the experience of adulthood and the feeling of belonging to a social group are essential components that cannot be obtained at home. In ordinary life, children learn teamwork, conflict resolution, and effective interaction with each other. In the conditions of distance learning, they do not have many opportunities to acquire soft abilities, which are in first place among the skills of the XXI century (Al-Balas et al. 3). Therefore, children cannot develop communication skills during breaks between classes or on the way to school. This emphasizes one of the main advantages of traditional learning, which is the possibility of socialization.
Counterargument
During distance learning, students have the opportunity to socialize regardless of external circumstances. For this purpose, it is possible to conduct classes in real-time, when they can ask and receive the opinion of others (Traxler 35).
Children learn to formulate statements and argue and prove the correctness of their own words during discussion and debate without arguments and quarrels. In addition, there are collective or individual meetings with teachers, which allow them to discuss significant or incomprehensible topics. Therefore, this is the experience of communicating with a teacher, and if a friend explains, it can be less informative and accessible. Distance school also has the opportunity to participate in lessons and spend free time together (Traxler 35). In this way, students can exchange impressions or new experiences during online meetings, enabling socialization irrespective of the pandemic’s development or bad weather conditions.
Conclusion
Hence, distance learning provides an opportunity to respond quickly to the needs of the modern world. The use of advanced technologies enables students to review the learning material at any time. Moreover, it is an effective way of learning that allows children to set their own pace of learning. There are many means of communication, and distance learning is one of them. The idea that it does not establish the necessary connections, that socialization is not active enough, is a misconception.
Schneider, Samantha L., and Martha Laurin Council. “Distance Learning in The Era of COVID-19.” Archives of Dermatological Research, vol. 313, no. 5, 2021, pp. 389-390. Web.
Administrative progressivism as the educational philosophy may be applied in online studying. This conclusion is drawn out of a number of factors which point at the similar goals and desire to reach success in teaching students. However, due to differences in the points of view to control of students’ knowledge, the combination of the learning style and educational philosophy under consideration may lead to worse learning outcomes for students.
Introduction
Education is essential in human life as people have understood its value. There are a lot of different approaches to education and view of its development. Some philosophies of education are new, others are older but their use in the modern system of education points that their nature is to create a deserving member of the society who has managed to get good knowledge, is informed, democratic, equitable, and humane.
Along with different approaches to the education, there are a lot of particular forms of learning which may be chosen depending on students needs. The main idea of the discussion is to consider online learning from the perspective of administrative progressivism with identifying the advantages and disadvantages of using the mentioned approach along with the chosen method of study.
Online Learning
Online learning is a particular way of learning when students do not have to leave their places if they want to get knowledge. Online learning allows students use the information from all over the world. Having got the access to a number of international databases, students will have to read books and study scientific works which may be available only in other countries.
When students refer to online learning as the way of getting knowledge, they feel importance in communication and sharing their perceptions with each other. It has been proven that the success of student learning depends on the structure of the course along with the type of the assessment (Armstrong, 2011).
Students pay much attention to online assessment as they believe that the lack of necessity to sit in class under the direct supervision of a teacher makes them feel better. Additionally, those students who apply to online learning have an opportunity to continue their everyday activities and being students at one and the same time. Considering the main priority of online learning the possibility to access classes from any spot of the world is to be mentioned.
One should not refuse from anything, it is just important to have a handicap. Students can structure their study time according to their desire, however they are not to forget that being 24/7 class availability does not mean the same level of availability of teachers and other students. Additionally, to take part in this type of learning, students are to be aware of the technological innovations and other specific programs necessary for coming through this class (Nagel, Maniam, & Leavell, 2011).
Administrative Progressivism
Progressivism is the particular educational philosophy which main idea is covered in the following. Progressivism is the education where instructions and curriculum are based on the students’ needs, interests and the level of knowledge. Students are directed at learning stills which are going to be necessary for them while learning the subjects instead of directing students at studying the subject. Students are actively engaged that promotes discovery and creativity while studying.
Social relevant themes are raised while studying to make sure that this particular philosophy of education promotes “values of community, cooperation, tolerance, justice and democratic equality” (Labaree, 2005, p. 277). The main advantages of the administrative progressivism are that this philosophy of education supported the strict structure and managing of education along with focus on management of the level of knowledge students get (Labaree, 2005).
Arguments for or against Using Administrative Progressivism in Relation to Online Learning
Having considered the advantages and disadvantages of the online learning and the peculiarities of the administrative progressive educational philosophy, it may be concluded that administrative progressivism ideally fits the online learning. Supporting the structured learning and strict managing of students’ success, online learning presupposes constant and regular assessment as there is no another possibility to check what students’ have achieved.
Documentation of the results is important as only on the basis of these results students have an opportunity to assess personally the level of knowledge and to increase them if possible. Additionally, administrative progressivism is aimed at creativity is studying and improving skills which may help consider the subject. This is exactly what online studying does as teachers are unable to teach students the subject, they can only to help students acquire the skills students are to possess to learn subjects themselves.
The creativity is important while online studying ads there is no similar source of information and each time students find out something new they are to think about the use of information themselves, there are no teachers who are going to assist them. However, administrative progressivism presupposes direct supervision of teachers over students which is impossible due to the fact that online learning is more individual type of studying.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it should be stated that online learning as the way of teaching may be used with the administrative progressivism due to the similarities in approaches to education. The similarities in the consideration of the style of teaching, use of creativity and direction as teaching skills how to learn the subject rather than teaching the subject are the main advantages.
However, administrative progressivism supports strong supervision over students which is impossible to do online except for increasing the number of tests and other assessments. However, this may lead to too much stress connected with constant assessment and which is considered as inappropriate.
Reference List
Armstrong, D. A. (2011). Students’ perceptions of online learning and instructional tools: A qualitative study of undergraduate students use of online tools. Turkish Online Journal of Educational Technology – TOJET, 10(3), 222-226.
Labaree, D. F. (2005). Progressivism, schools and schools of education: An American Romance. Paedagogica Historica, 41(1&2), 275–288.
Nagel, S., Maniam, B., & Leavell, H. (2011). Pros and cons of online education for educators and students. International Journal of Business Research, 11(6), 136-142.
The need to develop approaches to distance learning has increased significantly during the COVID-19 pandemic. The article “Fostering teaching presence through the synchronous online flipped learning approach” by Marshall & Kostka was published in 2020. It discusses “how teachers can leverage the flipped learning approach in online courses to foster teaching presence” (Marshall & Kostka, 2020, p. 1). In particular, the research made by the authors aims at describing innovative strategies for fostering teacher presence in the context of online learning. The main research question is how teachers can combine synchronous and asynchronous contexts for the most effective teaching of the English language.
The authors emphasize that synchronous sessions contribute significantly to teacher presence in online learning. They explain that flipped learning practice implies that the teacher provides course concepts before the start of the class, which allows the teacher to guide students to apply new information while directly interacting with them. Synchronous Online Flipped Learning Approach (SOFLA) is further presented as the model which was created “in order to align flipped learning principles with online instruction” (Marshall & Kostka, 2020, p. 4). The authors underline the special role of preparing materials and detailed planning of teaching instructions before classes within the framework of the approach.
The effectiveness of using flipped learning was supported by a discussion provided by the authors. They note that the presence of a trainer plays a key role in building understanding between participants (Marshall & Kostka, 2020). In particular, students need communication and social interaction for a meaningful learning experience. Flipped learning allows the teacher to provide the greatest amount of time for direct interaction with students, which is especially important in the framework of online learning.
To collect evidence in favor of this assumption, a literature review was conducted presenting related concepts and data. In particular, Marshall and Kostka (2020) provide information on the effectiveness of flipped learning and the Community of Inquiry framework by analyzing the works of other researchers. Based on the findings, the authors conclude that the approach can maximize the effectiveness of online learning by elevating the components of teacher presence.
The general idea of the article is that the correct use of the SOFTA framework allows the teacher to maximize their presence during online learning. The combination of synchronous and asynchronous tools helps to build the most effective educational communication. Synchronous practices include direct interaction with participants in the educational process during the classes. During the online sessions, the teacher guides students’ activities and promotes group interaction.
Asynchronous tools play a major role in the flipped learning concept and SOFTA framework as they are the preparation of materials and instructions for online sessions. The teacher must devote all the time of actual classes to direct communication with students. Prior to the start of the online sessions, the educator must prepare the concepts to be learned, plan the lesson, and provide materials to the participants. The authors emphasize that such learning is learner-centered and encourages the group and independent work of students.
While the authors have managed to present flipped learning as an effective practice for online learning, they do not respond to concerns that arise regarding it. First of all, preparing materials before online sessions can be extremely time-consuming for a teacher, which can negatively affect the quality of the educational process. Moreover, asynchronous learning involves the interaction of students with the teacher and each other. Thus, researchers should take a closer look at how justified the use of flipped learning is in terms of time-cost versus efficiency. The ideas presented are a promising direction in maximizing the effectiveness of online learning, and synchronous sessions are most needed when learning English.
Discussion questions:
How can educators optimize the time spent preparing for online sessions?
Can the SOFTA framework be applied to individual rather than group learning?
What changes need to be made to the SOFTA framework for use in English teaching and learning?
Reference
Marshall, H. W., & Kostka, I. (2020). Fostering teaching presence through the synchronous online flipped learning approach. The Electronic Journal for English as a Second Language, 24(2), 1-14.
Today, students get access to several forms of education, and they are free to demonstrate different attitudes toward their practice. Constantly changing organizational environments promote the examination of current academic needs and resources. Some attempts are successfully made and accepted, and some steps require additional elaboration. In this paper, attention will be paid to the problem of a lack of engagement with online learning and a reflection on design thinking as its solution.
Problem
The design thinking project is a common analytical method to endorse innovation in solving various business and organizational problems. Tutors should create effective working environments for their students and make sure goals are clearly defined, tasks are complete, and achievements are evaluated. Online learning is a trend that many facilities implement, and Western Sydney University also prefers this method of education. At this moment, the problem definition phase is that not many students are properly engaged with online learning. According to Peng (2017) and Pujiani (2020), student engagement is a necessary component of a learning process that includes behavioral, emotional, and cognitive factors. If young people cannot deal with their emotions, choose behaviors, and stay motivated, they fail some tasks. My view of the problem lies in poor engagement with online learning, which results in a lack of explanation, support, and cooperation between students and educators.
Solution
Design thinking is an approach to offering an innovative solution to a lack of engagement among students with online learning. Henriksen, Richardson and Mehta (2017) recommend using this process to solve educational problems of practice and taking all five stages from empathy to testing consistently. During the design thinking project development, it was possible to understand all its elements and how they should be applied to a particular situation.
The possibility to identify tasks is the main benefit of the chosen method. For example, the empathy stage was necessary to clarify and describe the problem of student engagement with online learning. Students demonstrated dissatisfaction with their experiences because they could not participate in a discussion equally. They felt that a teacher did not find it obligatory to motivate but present the material. In other words, design thinking was effective in comprehending the intentions and expectations of students. Another positive aspect of this project was solid work with sources. It was not enough to gather the opinions of students only but find academic approval of the method and its discussion incredible articles. Teachers and decision-makers should understand and maintain the student experience and help them overcome the complexity of a learning environment (Devine, 2020; Wrigley, Mosely and Tomitsch, 2018). This approach enhances such opportunities as the development of trustful relationships between students and the staff, respect for knowledge and cooperation, and a free exchange of information.
At the same time, innovation management together with professional practice on the basis of design thinking is never a simple task. As a part of a group, I had to improve my knowledge about the chosen software and learn the main aspects of “My ClassHub” to incorporate it into the University’s online learning system. The challenge was in the mandatory collaboration with people who have different background knowledge. On the one hand, team members knew the goals and made their contributions. I had to work hard to support them at the required level. On the other hand, students with opinions about online learning could be ignored. My task was to prepare them for change and explain why a new program deserved their recognition. The limitation was a small sample and the inability to gather more students for this project.
Reflection
In a short period, the group obtained feedback from students about the offered innovative technique. I was satisfied with the opinions that young people shared with my team. Students liked the idea of creating their profiles and inviting each other to their talks. They were interested in the possibility to manage and control their online activities in the way Zoom software did it. However, the intention to create a more elaborating environment provided students with the hope that they could work better and exchange their thoughts. Changing delivery modes allow users to undertake different tasks in ways that are more convenient for them, and the sense of isolation may be considerably reduced (Gillett-Swan, 2017; Martin and Bolliger, 2018). Our team relied on students’ opinions to clarify what they want to achieve with online courses, not at the expense of their interests and uniqueness.
To further improve the solution to a lack of engagement by means of incorporating new software, several ideas were developed, including virtual seating arrangements and weekly anonymous questionnaires. After my examination of the project and its acceptance by students, I think that additional improvements could be necessary. For example, the prototype solution that addresses the problem of a lack of engagement is possible to advance by providing brief guides for students. These instructions should help new users to learn how to create profiles, make them interesting, and work with different options on their web pages. Some students admitted that there was no consistency and clarifications about how to complete their tasks. Therefore, a concise but informative booklet could interest students and prepare them for a new distant environment.
The group dynamics in performing the design thinking learning project were relevant and successful. The decision to cooperate directly with students and gather their opinions was correct. My role, as well as the role of every group member, was significant. We delegated our responsibilities, talked to students, and made notes to recognize what help could be offered. Brainstorming and well-defined steps allowed us to see why students were not engaged with online learning and if a change was possible. The application of the design thinking method was characterized by positive emotions and experiences because personal opinions, technological aspects, and academic literature support increased engagement of students, using well-developed software for online learning.
Conclusion
My work on the group project was a necessary practice during which an academic problem and its effective solution were defined and discussed. Many factors predetermine students’ success, and cooperation is one of them. When a student has to be isolated and take courses online, the worth of communication increases. However, not all modern programs are properly developed to consider all students’ needs. Therefore, my team paid attention to the problem of a lack of engagement for students and introduced a solution in the form of “My ClassHub” software with different vital functions. In addition to the already implemented design thinking process, my recommendation is to provide students with guidelines to reduce the number of questions and concerns.
Reference List
Devine, P.T. (2020) ‘Reflections on the use of design thinking and service design tools to improve the student experience of an online learning environment’, Pacific Journal of Technology Enhanced Learning, 2(1), pp. 51-51.
Gillett-Swan, J. (2017) ‘The challenges of online learning: supporting and engaging the isolated learner. Journal of Learning Design, 10(1), pp. 20-30.
Henriksen, D., Richardson, C. and Mehta, R. (2017) ‘Design thinking: a creative approach to educational problems of practice’, Thinking Skills and Creativity, 26(3), pp. 140-153.
Martin, F. and Bolliger, D.U. (2018) ‘Engagement matters student perceptions on the importance of engagement strategies in the online learning environment’, Online Learning, 22(1), pp. 205-222.
Peng, W. (2017) ‘Research on the model of student engagement in online learning’, Eurasia Journal of Mathematics, Science and Technology Education, 13(7), pp. 2869-2882.
Pujiani, T. (2020) ‘The importance of building students’ engagement during online learning’, J-LEE-Journal of Law, English, and Economics, 2(01), pp. 15-20.
Wrigley, C., Mosely, G. and Tomitsch, M. (2018) ‘Design thinking education: a comparison of massive open online courses’, She Ji: The Journal of Design, Economics, and Innovation, 4(3), pp. 275-292.
In this modern era, there are many methods through which one can acquire knowledge. Among these, the most popular is online learning. It can be discerned as a method of teaching and learning through internet tools, to be in touch and have an alliance in an instructive environment. It helps the students to learn simultaneously and they can study without going to or staying in a school or college.
Many educational institutions support and engage in some kind of online education. Today, one can see that most of the people are unsatisfied with their job and so they try to acquire a better job with a high salary which leads them to a better lifestyle. People thus employed can study while doing their job with the help of the internet. The best advantage is that in this system one can study at his or her own time when the person feels comfortable. It is highly useful for professionals who may want to learn more without going to classrooms. To a great extent, it is also useful for housewives and retired people. Through this mode, one can become a well-informed individual who possesses great knowledge in his or her studies.
Benefits of online learning
Online learning has many benefits for high-tech companies: As the companies use different methods to design, transport, select, manage and extend their business, etc. online teaching process is instrumental for them. They can give valuable guidance, pieces of training for their employees without the need for them to be absent for long which helps to increase their skill, and through this skill, the company can achieve their goals. Besides, through this system, they can increase the efficiencies of the employees and add value to the process of business developments. At the same time, they can also save the cost of training as online learning is comparatively much cheaper.
Online learning improves knowledge: People with good knowledge are needed in every field, especially in business. Online learning provides updated knowledge that relates to every level and this will help people at all levels develop greater knowledge in different fields. This knowledge and skill one gains from online help the person to intermingle with others in a better way, progress their profession, or develop their business successfully. It also helps to construct relationships and build up an atmosphere of trust, affection, and admiration and to be confident, and to have good and better personal and professional relationships.
Online learning provides great opportunities at various academic levels. Through this students can save money for tuition, accommodation, and food. Online learning improves their talent in computers and the internet. Online learning does not need physical movements and students are not bound by time, place, and the tutor. “People with accessibility issues are not disadvantaged on an online course – everybody is equal.” (Benefits of Online Learning). Each individual has a similar chance to talk, express ideas through chatting without any discrimination or gender partiality.
Conclusion
From the above-mentioned factors, one can conclude that online learning has a lot of advantages over the other modes of education and that the main objective of online learning is to provide maximum information while being very convenient for both students and teachers. Thus online learning helps to develop business with great efficient employees, assist people to develop accurate knowledge about everything and thereby attain great achievement in their life and supplies enormous chance in educational level to help the students to gain considerable development in their life. Online learning gives a desired outcome to the person than any other means of learning.
Works Cited
Benefits of Online Learning: No Limitations. People Open Access Education Initiative People- uni: Building Public Health Capacity Using Internet- based e-learning. 2008. Web.
Online learning is one of the new innovative study methods that have been introduced in the pedagogy field. In the last few years, there has been a great shift in the training methods. Students can now learn remotely using the internet and computers.
Online learning comes in many forms and has been developing with the introduction of new technologies. Most universities, high schools, and other institutions in the world have all instituted this form of learning, and the student population in the online class is increasing fast. There has been a lot of research on the impacts of online education as compared to ordinary classroom education.
If the goal is to draw a conclusion of online education, considerable differences between the online learning environment and classroom environment should be acknowledged. In the former, teachers and students don’t meet physically as opposed to the latter, where they interact face to face. In this essay, the challenges and impact of online classes on students, teachers, and institutions involved were examined.
Thesis Statement about Online Classes
Thus, the thesis statement about online classes will be as follows:
Online learning has a positive impact on the learners, teachers, and the institution offering these courses.
Background study
Online learning or E learning is a term used to describe various learning environments that are conducted and supported by the use of computers and the internet. There are a number of definitions and terminologies that are used to describe online learning.
These include E learning, distance learning, and computer learning, among others (Anon, 2001). Distant learning is one of the terminologies used in E learning and encompasses all learning methods that are used to train students that are geographically away from the training school. Online learning, on the other hand, is used to describe all the learning methods that are supported by the Internet (Moore et al., 2011).
Another terminology that is used is E learning which most authors have described as a learning method that is supported by the use of computers, web-enabled communication, and the use of new technological tools that enhance communication (Spector, 2008). Other terminologies that are used to describe this form of online learning are virtual learning, collaborative learning, web-based learning, and computer-supported collaborative learning (Conrad, 2006).
Impacts of Online Classes on Students
Various studies and articles document the merits, demerits, and challenges of online studies. These studies show that online study is far beneficial to the students, teachers, and the institution in general and that the current challenges can be overcome through technological advancement and increasing efficiency of the learning process.
One of the key advantages of online learning is the ability of students to study in their own comfort. For a long time, students had to leave their comfort areas and attend lectures. This change in environment causes a lack of concentration in students. In contrast, E-learning enables the students to choose the best environment for study, and this promotes their ability to understand. As a result, students enjoy the learning process as compared to conventional classroom learning.
Another benefit is time and cost savings. Online students are able to study at home, and this saves them travel and accommodation costs. This is in contrast with the classroom environment, where learners have to pay for transport and accommodation costs as well as any other costs associated with the learning process.
Online study has been found to reduce the workload on the tutors. Most of the online notes and books are availed to the students, and this reduces the teacher’s workload. Due to the availability of teaching materials online, tutors are not required to search for materials. Teachers usually prepare lessons, and this reduces the task of training students over and over again.
Accessibility to learning materials is another benefit of online learning. Students participating in online study have unlimited access to learning materials, which gives them the ability to study effectively and efficiently. On the other hand, students in the classroom environment have to take notes as the lecture progress, and these notes may not be accurate as compared to the materials uploaded on the websites.
Unlimited resources are another advantage of online study. Traditionally, learning institutions were limited in the number of students that could study in the classroom environment. The limitations of facilities such as lecture theaters and teachers limited student enrollment in schools (Burgess & Russell, 2003).
However, with the advent of online studies, physical limitations imposed by classrooms, tutors, and other resources have been eliminated. A vast number of students can now study in the same institution and be able to access the learning materials online. The use of online media for training enables a vast number of students to access materials online, and this promotes the learning process.
Promoting online study has been found by most researchers to open the students to vast resources that are found on the internet. Most of the students in the classroom environment rely on the tutors’ notes and explanations for them to understand a given concept.
However, students using the web to study most of the time are likely to be exposed to the vast online educational resources that are available. This results in the students gaining a better understanding of the concept as opposed to those in the classroom environment (Berge & Giles, 2008).
An online study environment allows tutors to update their notes and other materials much faster as compared to the classroom environment. This ensures that the students receive up-to-date information on a given study area.
One of the main benefits of E-learning to institutions is the ability to provide training to a large number of students located in any corner of the world. These students are charged training fees, and this increases the money available to the institution. This extra income can be used to develop new educational facilities, and these will promote education further (Gilli et al., 2002).
Despite the many advantages that online study has in transforming the learning process, there are some challenges imposed by the method. One of the challenges is the technological limitations of the current computers, which affect the quality of the learning materials and the learning process in general.
Low download speed and slow internet connectivity affect the availability of learning materials. This problem is, however, been reduced through the application of new software and hardware elements that have high access speeds. This makes it easier to download learning materials and applications. As computing power increases, better and faster computers are being unveiled, and these will enable better access to online study facilities.
Another disadvantage of online learning as compared to the classroom environment is the lack of feedback from the students. In the classroom environment, students listen to the lecture and ask the tutors questions and clarifications any issues they didn’t understand. In the online environment, the response by the teacher may not be immediate, and students who don’t understand a given concept may find it hard to liaise with the teachers.
The problem is, however, been circumvented by the use of simple explanation methods, slideshows, and encouraging discussion forums between the teachers and students. In the discussion forums, students who don’t understand a concept can leave a comment or question, which will be answered by the tutor later.
Like any other form of learning, online studies have a number of benefits and challenges. It is, therefore, not logical to discredit online learning due to the negative impacts of this training method. Furthermore, the benefits of e-learning far outweigh the challenges.
Conclusion about Online Education
In culmination, a comparative study between classroom study and online study was carried out. The study was done by examining the findings recorded in books and journals on the applicability of online learning to students. The study revealed that online learning has many benefits as compared to conventional learning in the classroom environment.
Though online learning has several challenges, such as a lack of feedback from students and a lack of the proper technology to effectively conduct online learning, these limitations can be overcome by upgrading the E-Leaning systems and the use of online discussion forums and new web-based software.
In conclusion, online learning is beneficial to the students, tutors, and the institution offering these courses. I would therefore recommend that online learning be implemented in all learning institutions, and research on how to improve this learning process should be carried out.
References
Anon, C. (2001). E-learning is taking off in Europe. Industrial and Commercial Training, 33 (7), 280-282.
Berge, Z., & Giles, L. (2008). Implementing and sustaining e-learning in the workplace. International Journal of Web-Based Learning and Teaching Technologies, 3(3), 44-53.
Burgess, J. & Russell, J. (2003).The effectiveness of distance learning initiatives in organizations. Journal of Vocational Behaviour, 63 (2),289-303.
Conrad, D. (2006). E-Learning and social change, Perspectives on higher education in the digital age. New York: Nova Science Publishers.
Gilli, R., Pulcini, M., Tonchia, S. & Zavagno, M. (2002), E-learning: A strategic Instrument. International Journal of Business Performance Management, 4 (1), 2-4.
Moore, J. L., Camille, D. & Galyen, K. (2011). E-Learning, online learning and distance learning environments: Are they the same? Internet and Higher Education, 14(1), 129-135.
Spector, J., Merrill, M., Merrienboer, J. & Driscoll, M. P. (2008). Handbook of research on educational communications and technology (3rd ed.), New York: Lawrence Erlbaum Associates.
The article compares and contrasts online classes and traditional classes. Among the advantages of online classes are flexibility and convenience, while in-person classes offer a more structured learning environment. The author highlights that online lessons can be more cost-effective, although they lack support provided by live interactions. Overall, the online vs. traditional classes essay is very relevant today, and the choice depends on the individual student’s needs and preferences.
Online Vs. In-Person Classes Essay – Introduction
Modern technology has infiltrated the education sector and as a result, many college students now prefer taking online classes, as opposed to attending the traditional regular classes. This is because online classes are convenient for such students, and more so for those who have to both work and attend classes.
As such, online learning gives them the flexibility that they needed. In addition, online learning also gives an opportunity to students and professionals who would not have otherwise gone back to school to get the necessary qualifications. However, students who have enrolled for online learning do not benefit from the one-on-one interaction with their peers and teachers. The essay shall endeavor to examine the differences between online classes and the traditional classes, with a preference for the later.
Online and Traditional Classes Differences
Online classes mainly take place through the internet. As such, online classes lack the regular student teacher interaction that is common with traditional learning. On the other hand, learning in traditional classes involves direct interaction between the student and the instructors (Donovan, Mader and Shinsky 286).
This is beneficial to both the leaner and the instructors because both can be bale to establish a bond. In addition, student attending the traditional classroom often have to adhere to strict guidelines that have been established by the learning institution. As such, students have to adhere to the established time schedules. On the other hand, students attending online classes can learn at their own time and pace.
One advantage of the traditional classes over online classes is that students who are not disciplined enough may not be able to sail through successfully because there is nobody to push them around. With traditional classes however, there are rules to put them in check. As such, students attending traditional classes are more likely to be committed to their education (Donovan et al 286).
Another advantage of the traditional classes is all the doubts that students might be having regarding a given course content can be cleared by the instructor on the spot, unlike online learning whereby such explanations might not be as coherent as the student would have wished.
With the traditional classes, students are rarely provided with the course materials by their instructors, and they are therefore expected to take their own notes. This is important because they are likely to preserve such note and use them later on in their studies. In contrast, online students are provided with course materials in the form of video or audio texts (Sorenson and Johnson 116).
They can also download such course materials online. Such learning materials can be deleted or lost easily compared with handwritten class notes, and this is a risk. Although the basic requirements for a student attending online classes are comparatively les in comparison to students attending traditional classes, nonetheless, it is important to note that online students are also expected to be internet savvy because all learning takes place online.
This would be a disadvantage for the regular student; only that internet savvy is not a requirement. Students undertaking online learning are likely to be withdrawn because they hardly interact one-on-one with their fellow online students or even their instructors. The only form of interaction is online. As such, it becomes hard for them to develop a special bond with other students and instructors. With traditional learning however, students have the freedom to interact freely and this helps to strengthen their existing bond.
Conclusion
Online learning is convenient and has less basic requirements compared with traditional learning. It also allows learners who would have ordinarily not gone back to school to access an education. However, online students do not benefit from a close interaction with their peers and instructors as do their regular counterparts. Also, regular students can engage their instructors more easily and relatively faster in case they want to have certain sections of the course explained, unlike online students.
Works Cited
Donovan, Judy, Mader, Cynthia and Shinsky, John. Constructive student feedback: Online vs. traditional course evaluations. Journal of Interactive Online Learning, 5.3(2006): 284-292.
Sorenson, Lynn, and Johnson, Trav. Online Student Ratings of Instructions. San Francisco: Jossey Bass, 2003. Print.
Distance learning is education devoid of any in-person interaction with an instructor or peers. Learning is by students at their convenience as it varies on speed and timeline. Distance learning relies on online learning tools such as the internet, email, or mail. Distance learning bridges barriers that may prevent individuals from attending classes in some institutions. Barriers include the distance that ensures some students cannot travel overseas to attend some institutions. The motivation of teachers in distance learning is essential in ensuring that this learning occurs smoothly and students attain their educational targets. Various factors affect the inspiration of teachers in distance learning, and this essay examines some of these crucial factors.
Motivational Factors
Efficient Communication
Efficient communication with the administration of an institution is a crucial factor that affects the motivation of teachers in distance learning. Teachers involved in distance learning and with superiors who communicate targets regularly remain focused and driven in the attainment of their targets (Traxler, 2018). This is because communication clarifies unclear aspects of the work these teachers are involved leaving minimal room for making guesses. Unclear or inefficient communication discourages teachers from getting involved in their duties, as the management sets a poor precedent (Odinayeva, 2020). This leads to the minimal performance of duties, dismal achievement of responsibilities, and unsatisfactory performance for institutions and students. Efficient communication also ensures teachers are constantly reminded of their responsibility to serve their students and institutions.
Recognition of Efforts and Rewards
The impact of recognition of performing professionals and rewarding them effectively is a proven method of ensuring motivation in all fields. This is because the identification of extraordinarily performing teachers spurs competition within the workplace, provoking exceptional efforts (Woolley & Fishbach, 2018). Regularly organizing awarding ceremonies for the best-performing teachers shows appreciation for their dedication to their duty. Increased motivation positively steers institutional targets and student performances, increasing educational credibility and efficient student preparation for future responsibilities (Lai et al., 2018). Rewarding exceptional teachers have also been shown to ensure the mental health of teachers is improved, as their efforts are appreciated. This ensures that they set their best endeavors to ensure that the institution performs exceptionally.
Timely Remuneration
Due to the insatiable need for finances, remuneration is a vital motivation factor in all professional fields globally. Timely payment of teacher salaries shows that an institution appreciates their efforts and is willing to compensate them appropriately. The anticipation for more enumeration during the subsequent period is an additional reason why teachers who are paid on time focus on their jobs better (Aliyu et al., 2018). The efficient, timely remuneration also means that the teachers do not need to find alternative means of meeting their financial needs. The undivided focus on their job with the knowledge that it can meet their needs at the right time is an additional motivation.
Workload
The workload teachers are bombarded with in distance learning affects their motivation. Teachers subjected to higher workloads are unmotivated in their jobs and always keen on the lookout for the next opportunity. They also perform their responsibilities with professional courtesy without any drive to do it exceptionally (Ibrahim & Nat, 2019). The delivery of bare minimums means that the performance of students and the institution reflect this attitude. Teachers with minimum workload due to sufficient staffing are better capable of delivering on their professional mandate due to sufficient time for preparation and resting time (Luongo, 2018). Teachers with the right workload notice their employer’s dedication to their well-being and reward this convenience with motivation and focus on excellence.
Easing Access to Documents
In this era characterized by digital migration and the integration of technology into every sector, the education sector should not lag. Teachers who work for institutions that make their work easier by digitalizing their documents are motivated to perform their roles better (Berestok et al., 2020). Teachers whose institution focuses disregard digital migration make their jobs more difficult by mandating them to access the hardcopy versions of various documents. The time spent looking for these documents is discouraging and frustrates these distance teachers. The apparent lack of dedication from their employers and institutions discourages extra effort. Such staff is always seeking a way out of the institution and dread tying their long-term futures to these schools.
Conclusion
In conclusion, motivation is an essential tenet of most professions, distance learning included. Teachers must be appreciated due to the monumental task they have contributing to the education of students. Distance learning teachers are in greater need of motivation due to the detachment necessitated by various factors and enabled by online means. This ensures that students from across the globe cannot meet their teachers, and teachers are only restricted to teaching through the screens. Factors likely to lead to the demotivation of distance learning teachers include inefficient communication, a lack of recognition for efforts, and late remuneration. Additional factors include a huge workload for teachers and difficult access to various documents. The motivation of teachers is reflected in institutional seriousness and dedication to the attainment of excellence. Institutions that are focused on ensuring their students attain the best possible grades and their teachers work in comfortable environments have motivated teachers.
Berestok, O., Kurinnyj, O., & Shcherbyna, Y. (2020). DISTANCE learning: implementation of information communication technologies to promote the educational process at higher educational establishments. Humanities Science Current Issues, 1(27), 146–150. Web.
The ever changing technological advancement is catching up with all the traditional systems that used to define the parameters with which we conducted our activities. Technology has infiltrated into our education systems, creating an avenue where education is carried out courtesy of technology.
Online learning, also called virtual learning or e-learning has opened up a wide platform and raised the bar in the different educational curricular there are. E-learning can therefore be defined as “a platform through individuals are dynamically linked to a given network or system and are able to swap or exchange information that relates to a given discipline“(Yen, 2005).
Traditionally, the classroom was a composition of a room with a tutor or instructor with students as the participants. This system facilitated face to face communication, enabling the class to hold many interactive forums in the course of their study. Combining the two concepts then, we can define e-learning “as a learning environment that exists solely in the form of digital content that is stored, accessed and exchanged through networked computer and information systems” (Yen, 2005)
The comparisons, therefore among the two platforms vary, but there are similarities to the two also. The difference among the two is basically one, that in an actual classroom, everything that is in that setting is tangible and both the learner and tutor have to physically change locations in order that they attend classes.
A virtual class on the other hand occurs through a purely intangible media that is the internet. The students just get connected to an internet source anywhere around the globe and log onto their respective online portal. That is how my online college experience compares to that of a student attending real classes at Harvard University.
Online learning can in many ways be used as a platform towards the advancement of personal profiles via their programmes. The advantages of online education vary, meaning there are many ways through which it can propel one to the crème of higher education. There are five features to online education, these are; convenience, they enable one to learn at his own pace at a time when a person feels he’s ready to get into the virtual class.
This has helped even the fulltime employees in the different sectors get certified in their various fields of interests. There is control; a student is able to dictate his pace of studying hence he acts as his own manager. This allows the student to determine the most appropriate time for the learning process, and allow for emergencies that may arise in the duration that he is studying for the given paper.
They facilitate connection, in that the interactive forums available on the platforms provide an opportunity for the students from different parts of the world to share the ideas on the topics under study. Cost; they are cheaper compared to the real classroom, and facilitate faster completion of the courses at cheaper rates. These courses nurture a student’s commitment to the given units that one has to cover as only the resilient finish up these courses. Generally, the online courses enhance personal growth and commitment.
E-leaning has many constraints ranging from environmental, cultural to other minor internal and external factors. Environmental factors range from a set of the soft ware’s that make it possible to conduct the study. Appropriate software which provides the best learning environment is therefore required to acquire optimum services (White, 2007). Cultural factors encompass an individual’s personal belief and his perceptions about this mode of study.
References
White, S. (2007). Critical success factors for e-learning and institutional change: some
organizational perspectives on campus-wide e-learning. British Journal of Educational Technology, 5(38). 12-14.
Yen, M. (2005). E-learning systems and parameters. Journal of academy of Business and Economics, 2 (12). 54-57.