Benefits and Challenges of Online Learning

Benefits and Challengesof Online Learning

BENEFITS

CHALLENGES

Flexibility

Motivation

Variety

Distraction

Interactive

Technology

Technology

While each course may vary, all online learning courses require students to have a basic level of technology skills and proficiency. Students must be able to effectively interact with the online content and therefore must possess some basic computer literacy. Additionally, they must have the necessary hardware, software, and internet access as specified by the course requirements.

Distraction

Students in the online learning environment must contend with more distractions compared to those in a traditional classroom setting. While classroom students might be tempted by their cell phones, online learners must avoid distractions such as social media, television, household chores, and the urge to leave their study space for errands. Students who are considering the online learning environment must ask themselves if they possess the self-discipline necessary to stay focused during their dedicated learning time.

Motivation

One of the biggest impacts on the effectiveness of online learners is their motivation to learn. Students engaged in online learning must be self-motivated and possess a strong desire to learn the material at a pace that suits their needs. This mode of learning demands a level of self discipline and maturity that is different to that in the traditional classroom setting. Students that are capable of regulating their own pacing and maintain their motivation are well-equipped to overcome this challenge and achieve success in the online learning environment.

Variety

In the online learning environment, there is a high variety of educational resources and materials used to teach each lesson. These lessons often incorporate various multimedia elements, such as videos, podcasts, presentations, interactive tools, images, and online simulations, catering to a wide range of learning styles. This variety enhances student engagement and promotes effective information retention.

Flexibility

One of the most frequently cited benefits of online learning is its flexibility. In an online learning environment, you will have the flexibility to complete your lessons anywhere and anytime, within the established pacing deadlines. This is particularly advantageous for students that have time constraints due to work or family obligations, as well as those with limited transportation or who are unable to attend campus-based classes. Being able to access course work anytime, day or night, is a significant benefit for students who prefer to study outside of a traditional synchronous class schedule.

Interactive

Students in the online learning environment have the expectation to interact with the learning materials, their peers, and their educators. Interaction with the materials occurs through various methods, including self check questions, self paced presentations, vocabulary matching tools, and quizzes. These resources keep students highly engaged and help them to effectively retain the content. Peer interaction is facilitated through discussion posts where they can engage in meaningful discussions about the course content. Finally, students interact with their educators through assignments and assessments. Students can expect to receive high quality feedback to help them understand their progress in the course.