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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.

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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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20 Advantages and Disadvantages of Online Classes

Online learning has become more accessible in the past decade as potential students discover that they can find ways to obtain a preferred degree while handling their daily obligations. It is a way that encourages post-graduate learning while staying within life and career schedules. Most accredited colleges and universities are now offering programs that make it possible to take some, if not all, of the required courses on the Internet.

Public and private institutions offer online classes more today than ever before in history. This education format is a way to reach students who may have social or economic situations that don’t allow them to enjoy the traditional on-campus learning lifestyle.

As more people have access to high-speed Internet connections, online education opportunities have continued expanding. It has become acceptable in most circles to earn a degree at any level with these opportunities, allowing students to have legitimacy and more accessibility with what they earned.

The advantages and disadvantages of online classes continue to evolve, but these are the current key points to consider if you’re thinking about becoming a student.

List of the Advantages of Online Classes

1. Online classes provide more flexibility to incorporate multiple learning styles. Although you can earn a healthy salary without going to college in some trades, many employment opportunities require an undergraduate degree or higher to obtain a position. That means it can be challenging to get through classes when your learning style might be different than what a local institution offers. Taking an online class allows you to have more control over how you retain the available information.

You can listen to music while you are writing a paper. Online classes let you interact in forums while watching television. Instead of being stuck in a stuffy classroom listening to a lecture, you have the flexibility to learn using the style that works best for your needs.

2. Your classes can fit better into your schedule. Online classes are the perfect solution for anyone who works a full-time job, has a family to raise, is housebound for some reason, or lives in a rural area. These obstacles can make it challenging to enroll in a traditional institution. As long as you have an Internet or data connection, then you can access your study materials whenever you need them. Many professors are even uploading lectures or providing texts that supplement the learning process.

If you have a busy lifestyle and want to get ahead in your career, then learning at your own pace with an online class is an intelligent way to obtain your next college or university degree.

3. It takes advantage of technology innovations. Online classes at many institutions take advantage of the technological innovations that occur every year. These changes get applied in convenient and practical ways, such as the implementation of a rolling semester. Some colleges and universities make their courses dominant from an independent standpoint, making it possible for students to complete their curriculum based on a schedule they said instead of what the professor requires.

As more degree programs become 100% online opportunities, many colleges and universities are finding that the independent and innovative approach makes it easier for modern students to achieve their goals.

4. Online classes are typically cheaper than traditional enrollment. Students that take online classes find that the cost of their college degree is usually less expensive than it would be if they took courses on campus. There are usually fewer textbook purchases to consider, travel cost reductions, and room and board considerations that can cut the cost of a college or university degree by 50% or more. That means each person who uses this opportunity can start their career with lower debt levels.

5. It teaches students how to be disciplined and responsible. If you can access the Internet, then your online course work is immediately available. That means each student must have the discipline to maintain the continuity of their schedule while keeping themselves on track for a successful outcome. The freedom that comes with classes that you take online comes with the need to have higher levels of responsibility. Students must stay organized and adhere to a workable schedule.

Putting all of your time to the completion of an online degree can backfire if you neglect the other critical areas of your life. Take advantage of the flexibility that this option provides so that you can spend some time with your family members and friends.

6. You can receive a degree from an accredited institution. A degree that you earn online from an accredited institution has the same weight in today’s career marketplace as one earned from the traditional approach. That means your credentials and applications will get taken seriously when you are ready to pursue new career opportunities. This advantage also means that you can take the credits earned to other programs, pursue graduate-level courses, or go after that doctorate degree that you’ve always wanted.

7. Online classes offer location independence. Some students may not have access to the program that best fits their needs. It might be across town from them, in another state, or even on the other side of the world. The availability of online classes makes it possible for students to participate in and graduate from their preferred program with less difficulty. These programs do not generally have the same geographic restrictions that you’d find with a traditional institution.

Since moving isn’t an option for many of today’s students, especially adult learners who have career and family responsibilities, online classes allow each person to enroll in the program that’s right for them regardless of where they live.

8. It provides students with real-life career preparation opportunities. When students go to college, then it can feel like you’re living in a bubble. You receive the necessary and valuable information that will let you establish a career one day, but it is not always easy to start developing the practical skills necessary to become good at your future job. Online classes require the same skill sets that many people use every day when working, which means you can enter a job market better prepared for what to expect.

An online class is quite similar to a desk job at almost any company. You must stay in touch through email, manage software solutions, and keep track of your time to ensure that you’re fulfilling all of your obligations. You get tasked with remote work while still engaging with a team to complete projects before a deadline.

9. You form social connections with your classmates. Although it is more difficult to make social connections with an online class, it isn’t an impossible circumstance. Today’s technology makes it possible to form relationships that go beyond sitting behind a computer. Your digital classmates could organize a group video hangout, facilitate conversations, and even do icebreakers that help everyone get to know each other better.

It may not be exactly the same as a face-to-face connection, but technology makes it very close. Video calls and other tools can help you to see each other even if you live on the other side of the planet.

10. It eliminates the need for verbal expression in a classroom environment. Many online students find that it is easier for them to express their opinions in this structure because there isn’t a public speaking component to the education process. You don’t need to worry about a professor calling you up to the front of the classroom to explain a concept or create a diagram. You can express yourself through writing instead, which means if something can get fixed if it doesn’t sound right in the first draft.

This advantage often leads to high-quality dialogs where each learner can carefully reflect the quality of their thinking on each comment, chapter, or project. Then you can move on to the next one whenever you feel like you’re ready.

11. Online classes create more opportunities for a varied learning experience. An online course makes it easier to include guest experts or past students in the classroom environment. Even people from other institutions can get involved in the conversations that take place to facilitate the learning process. Students can receive exposure to a worldwide perspective in their preferred subject instead of being limited to the local point of view. That means the experience has more value to potential employers in the future.

List of the Disadvantages of Online Classes

1. It can take longer to earn a degree when using online classes. If a student is not thoroughly committed to earning their degree, then it can take several years for that person to complete their online classes. Everything that the course requires is up to you. That means you must complete your assignments, read the required materials, interact with your professor, talk with your peers, and take exams according to the rules presented upon enrollment. It can be tempting to ignore your obligations when there isn’t a direct line of accountability as there is when you attend a physical classroom.

2. Some of your required course work might require in-person activities. If you are taking online classes, then there may be some stipulations where you must attend classes or take tests in a proctored environment. If a third-party observer is necessary, then it is up to each student to find an organization that will monitor this process. That means the cost of your classes each semester will go up based on the number of exams you must take.

Some institutions will even require a specific amount of on-campus time before they will award a degree. This requirement can last anywhere from two weeks to two months for U.S.-based colleges and universities.

3. You still need to take the time to fulfill your classroom requirements. Online classes can help students save a lot of time on their learning obligations, but the structure will not eliminate the need to put in some work. If you do not have a lot of free time during the day, then it may be impossible to fulfill the obligations of your enrollment. That’s why the flexibility of this arrangement can be an advantage since you only need to take one class at a time – but that can still be problematic for some people.

It is possible to avoid some of this disadvantage by taking independent learning courses online. When you can complete the work at your own pace, then the pressure of deadlines can disappear. You must still have trust in the program and remain dedicated to a result to turn this education opportunity into a real investment for you.

4. Online classes don’t provide the same face-to-face connections. Colleges and universities provide numerous opportunities for in-person social networking. When you can have face-to-face conversations with your professors and peers, then it can enhance the educational foundations that you receive. Networking functions can serve as essential connections for future career opportunities. The structure of online classes negates many of those potential advantages.

Even though you might have an institution that focuses on small class sizes and curriculum requirements that mandate interaction, a forum conversation or online chat isn’t the same as sharing coffee or lunch with someone.

5. Some online institutions don’t have full accreditation. You must verify that the college or university providing the online classes you want has full accreditation. Many facilities are not accredited even with the expansion of Internet access. That means your degree and qualifications might not receive the recognition you expect from potential employers. It may not receive serious consideration from other professionals in your preferred industry. This disadvantage also means that any credits earned might not be transferable to another institution.

The outcome of this disadvantage can be a costly mistake in terms of time and money. You’ll want to make sure to verify the specific accreditation of any school you’re considering before you even turn in an application.

6. You must have access to the Internet to complete your work. Online classes require you to have access to the Internet so that you can complete your assignments on time. If you don’t have the equipment at home to do the work or a connection that is fast enough to handle your course work, then it may be challenging to have a successful experience with this learning option. You’ll need a computer or tablet PC, a home-based ISP, and any peripherals necessary for your degree program.

Some public libraries and other institutions may offer computer access, but it may come with limited time or additional costs. You would also need to access that equipment during their regular working hours, which may not be possible with your specific schedule.

7. Many online classes require students to complete more work. The average online course in the United States requires a greater amount of reading and student interaction than a traditional class. Students must prove remotely that they have mastery over the material in question, which means your curriculum will involve a lot of independent study and Internet-based group work. Although the average amount of time one needs to dedicate to their course work is about 10 hours per week for each class, it is not unusual for individual courses at accredited colleges and universities to require 15-20 hours per week of work.

8. Technology scheduling issues can limit learning opportunities. Students must ensure that their computer is updated frequently with the latest operating system and software components to facilitate their learning. Some people may need to learn new or enhanced troubleshooting skills to manage their boot-up time, Internet connection, or software platforms that a professor requires. If you are a person who considers themselves to be technically challenged, then the tasks of this disadvantage could be a significant barrier to your current and future learning opportunities.

9. Time variations could be problematic for some students. Students who take online classes must plan and adjust their schedules to meet the deadlines set by their professors. American institutions often base deadlines on the time zone of the institution, so a West Coast student would need to account for the three-hour difference for an East Coast deadline. If international students are taking online courses, then this disadvantage could be significant.

This issue becomes problematic for students with opposite schedules. If you study at night and your partner works during the day, then there will be significant lag time between each response.

If you have a hectic schedule or zero access to a college or university, then online classes are a way to pursue your academic goals. It only requires Internet access or a data connection, and then you can begin fulfilling the requirements of your course work. The modern structure of this learning opportunity does an excellent job of simulating the traditional classroom experience.

This option may not be a first-choice selection for someone who struggles with their organization or focus. If you’re already putting in 40 hours each week with your job, then it may be unreasonable to put in another 20-40 hours after you get home to fulfill your learning obligations.

These advantages and disadvantages of online classes must receive individualized consideration. If you live at home full-time and want a self-directed education, then this innovation can be a positive experience. When you prefer social interactions and a traditional classroom, then it may not be the best choice to pursue.

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Are Online Classes Worth It? 12 Pros & Cons

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  • 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 .

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

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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What We’re Learning About Online Learning

As virtual classrooms and online learning proliferate, researchers are working to quantify what works and what doesn’t.

essay about online classes advantages and disadvantages

By Benedict Carey

Over four days in mid-March, Cindy Hansen, an 11th grade English teacher at Timpanogos High School in Orem, Utah, had to go fully virtual, and took her class of some 30 students reading “The Great Gatsby” online.

Ms. Hansen had no experience with virtual courses and, like teachers around the country, had to experiment. She decided to upload video lessons — presenting the text of “Gatsby” along with a small window in the corner of the screen, in which she read aloud key passages and assigned essays.

The transition seemed to be proceeding smoothly until, after several lessons, she received a note from a student who rarely spoke up in class.

“He’s one of my sweetest students, and he wrote, ‘Ms. Hansen, those videos are glitchy — I can’t really see the text,’” she said in a phone interview. “I had just assumed they were fine. Well, they were horrible, and the poor kid felt frustrated. I’m glad he said something.” She quickly fixed the problem, she said, by reshooting the videos directly on the teaching site instead of uploading them.

After this spring’s on-the-fly experiment in online classes, teachers and school districts across the country are preparing for what will be anything but a normal fall semester. Some districts stumbled in the transition, with classes zoom-bombed and interrupted ; many strained to address serious inequities in access to computers . Recent research finds that most students fell months behind during the last term of the year, with the heaviest impact on low-income students.

Other schools, like Timpanogos, transitioned with less disruption, in part by mobilizing facilitators, coaches and other staff members to support both teachers and students who were in danger of logging off and checking out, according to a report by researchers.

Now, most districts are facing a future in which online courses will likely be part of the curriculum, whether that entails students returning in shifts or classrooms remaining closed because of local outbreaks. And underlying that adjustment is a more fundamental question: How efficiently do students learn using virtual lessons?

“What we’re finding in the research thus far is it’s generally harder to keep students engaged with virtual lessons,” no matter the content, said Jered Borup, an associate professor in learning technologies at George Mason University. “Over all, though, that is not the distinguishing feature here. Rather, it’s what supports the student has when learning virtually. That makes all the difference.”

Research comparing in-person to online learning comes from many disciplines and does not benefit from the kinds of controls that scientists prefer; courses, teachers, students and class composition vary too much to make comparisons easily.

Physical presence matters, in ways that are not captured by the scientific method. “Look, I did fine in Ms. Hansen’s class — I just bought the audiobooks and read ‘Gatsby’ on my own,” one student, Ethan Avery, said in a phone interview. “But in some other classes. … I’m personally a terrible procrastinator, and not having that physical reminder, sitting in class and the teachers grilling me, ‘Ethan, this is due Friday,’ I fell behind. That was the rough part.”

The two most authoritative reviews of the research to date, examining the results of nearly 300 studies, come to a similar conclusion. Students tend to learn less efficiently than usual in online courses, as a rule, and depending on the course. But if they have a facilitator or mentor on hand, someone to help with the technology and focus their attention — an approach sometimes called blended learning — they perform about as well in many virtual classes, and sometimes better.

One state that has applied this approach broadly, for nearly two decades, is Michigan. A state-supported nonprofit institute called Michigan Virtual offers scores of online courses, in languages, the sciences, history and professional development. It also offers 23 virtual advanced placement (A.P.) courses, for college credit.

“We find that if students have support and a schedule — they do the lesson every weekday at 9 a.m., for instance — they tend to do better than just tuning in here and there,” said Joe Freidhoff, vice president of Michigan Virtual. “The mantra of online learning is, ‘Your own time, your own pace, your own path.’ In fact, each of these factors matter greatly, and some structure seems to help.”

In 2012, the institute added a research arm, to track the progress of its students. In the 2018-19 school year, more than 120,000 students took at least one of its virtual courses; the vast majority of students were in high school. The pass rate was 50 percent for those living below the state’s poverty line, and 70 percent for those living above it, averages roughly in line with the public high schools.

The story was different for Michigan Virtual’s A.P. students. In the 2018-19 academic year, 807 students took least one of its virtual A.P. classes. The final exams are graded on a scale from 1 to 5, with scores of 3 or above having a chance to earn college credit. The virtual learners’ overall average score was 3.21, compared to 3.04 among Michigan peers who took the course in a classroom. The national average on those same tests was 2.89.

“On these exams, our students consistently exceed state and national averages,” Dr. Freidhoff said. “Of course, being A.P. students, they tend to be very self-directed, motivated students.”

In its scramble to shift courses online in mid-March, the Timpanogos district put facilitators in place, both for teachers who needed them and to check in on some students. It lent Chromebooks to every student that did not have a computer at home. And it implemented a policy that, by all accounts, took pressure off the sudden transition: Students could opt for a “P” for pass, if struggling with a virtual class, without taking a hit to their G.P.A.

“It was a little overwhelming at first,” said Briley Andersen, another of Ms. Hansen’s students. “My physics and computer science classes were taking almost all my time, so I ended up taking a P in those.” She added, “As long as there’s good communication with a teacher, you get the hang of it. If not, it takes too long to figure out what you’re supposed to do.”

Michelle Jensen, who is employed by the district as a learning coach, provided guidance to teachers — including Ms. Hansen — and to students when possible. “The rationale was, do no harm,” she said. “These students are going to have 13 years of education, at least, and our approach to this one term was, help them learn how to make this adjustment.”

In a review of Timpanogos’s transition, a research team led by Dr. Borup and Ms. Jensen found that it was largely the nondigital measures that mattered most. Teachers offered virtual office hours to students, and contacted them when activity fell off. When those interventions weren’t effective, counselors worked with the family.

The last term of the 2020 school year was, in effect, a hard lesson for much of the educational system in what virtual classes could and could not provide. The content is there, and accessible, in any well-prepared course.

But if the evidence thus far is any guide, virtual education will depend for its success on old-school principles: creative, attentive teaching and patient support from parents. As “The Great Gatsby” concludes: “So we beat on, boats against the current, borne back ceaselessly into the past.”

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Benedict Carey has been a science reporter for The Times since 2004. He has also written three books, “How We Learn” about the cognitive science of learning; “Poison Most Vial” and “Island of the Unknowns,” science mysteries for middle schoolers. More about Benedict Carey

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Essays About Online Class: Top 5 Examples and 7 Prompts

Essays about online class tell many stories. If you need to write about e-learning, discover the top examples and prompts for the subject in our guide.

With over 5.8 million American students attending in 2021, online classes are now one of the education sector’s most popular and modern learning methods. Although it became prevalent because of the pandemic, it’s believed that the concept of distance learning began in the late 1800s .

Online classes pose many benefits that many still take advantage of even after the pandemic. However, not everyone adjusts well to this technology-centered learning due to no face-to-face contact and difficulty learning without the back-and-forth of lesson question time. 

1. My Experience as an Online Student by Debra Sicard

2. how to succeed in online classes essay by anonymous on ivypanda.com, 3. essay on advantages and disadvantages of online classes by anonymous on selfstudymantra.com, 4. online school vs. traditional school essay by anonymous on gradesfixer.com, 5. short essay on online classes by anonymous on byjus.com, 7 helpful prompts on essays about online class, 1. online classes: defined, 2. my experience with online classes during lockdown, 3. how does online class work, 4. the best sites for online class, 5. the pros and cons of enrolling in online class, 6. review of a book about online class, 7. should online classes be the norm.

“I am not a traditional student, so I have non-traditional needs… online classes fit my lifestyle.”

Sicard shares her positive experience with online classes, primarily centering her essay on convenience. She says that with online courses, she can fit more lessons into her schedule, save her money on gas, and have more time with her family. In addition, she mentions she can work and do other things besides taking her credits.

To have a proper perspective of the topic, Sicard also includes the disadvantages of virtual learning, such as devices catching viruses and missing in-real-life interactions with her professors and classmates. But, she believes that an online student can learn as much or even more than what students learn in traditional classes.

“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.”

This essay contains steps a non-traditional student can take to avoid failing online classes. The author says that students, especially multitaskers, must know how to manage and balance their time to avoid losing focus. In addition, having a dedicated study spot is necessary to avoid distractions.

“Online classes or online method of learning presents an easy and comfortable method to achieve knowledge. Online classes have now become a great alternative to traditional classes.”

The writer delves into the benefits and drawbacks of online versus traditional learning. Virtual classes offer students freedom regarding their schedules and whereabouts. Some schools also allow students to learn for free. E-learning effectively trains individuals to be responsible and disciplined. 

However, individuals who are not computer literate will find online classes frustrating. Plus, electronic devices can be bad for health, and a lack of personal interaction can hinder personality development.

“[Online course] will also help you become more self-motivated, a trait that will make you stand out in the workplace and beyond.”

By listing the similarities and differences between online and traditional schools, the author demonstrates what classes a student should pick. The writer concludes that while traditional schools prepare students for the real world by interacting with diverse people, online schools help students become more self-motivated to stand out.

“The advantages of online classes take over their disadvantages. If students want to learn, then they have immense opportunities to learn from online classes.”

The author defines online classes as a type of education system where students use electronic devices with an internet connection to learn. However, while online learning improves the quality of education, it can also make the student lazy and cultivates a sense of isolation. Ultimately, they believe that to have the best education system, school teachers and officials must learn how to combine the two methods.

If the topic you’re thinking of is still confusing and you don’t know where to start, here are seven easy writing prompts to inspire you:

Essays About Online Class: Online classes definition

Explain the topic to your reader and give a brief history of the origins of online classes. Then briefly compare it to the traditional class to make the differences clear. Finally, point out the distinct features of online classes that conventional learning doesn’t offer, such as face-to-face interaction and question-and-answer debates. You can also discuss various online classes schools offer, such as hybrid learning, interactive online courses, etc.

Tell your story if you’re a student with experience with online classes. Narrate how your school switched to virtual classrooms. Relay the challenges you encountered, including how you adapted. Finish your essay by stating your current preference and why. 

For example, you favor e-learning because it cuts your transportation expenses, helps you be more responsible for managing your time, and lets you sleep in the mornings.

Relate your experience when your school moved online. Discuss any equipment or devices you need to buy before enrolling in your online class. Explain how your school handles online courses and what it does when there are technical difficulties. Add how these challenges (such as unstable internet connection and sudden power outage), such as attendance and participation, impact a class.

To make your essay more intriguing, add the average price of your online classes and if you think it’s fair. For instance, you can argue that since schools don’t provide computers and save expenses on cleaning and utilities when physical classrooms are unused, they should cut their laboratory or miscellaneous fees. You may also be interested in these articles about back to school .

Essays About Online Class: The best sites for online class

Zoom, Google Classroom, and Microsoft Team are just three of the most popular online teaching software for online classes. In this prompt, look for the most useful and efficient software sites teachers or schools should incorporate into e-learning. Find examples or reliable data that show the number of students or schools that use them. Finally, ensure the details you add are accurate to make your essay credible.

Do you want to write about technology instead? Check out our  essays about technology .

Discussing online classes’ positive and negative effects is a usual essay topic. To make your essay stand out, pick the most impactful points on everyone involved. Don’t just explore the students’ perspectives. Include how virtual learning influences teachers, parents, and businesses.

To give you an idea, you can look into businesses near the campus that closed down when the school shifted to virtual classrooms.

This prompt requires you to search for publications about online classes and share your opinion on them.

For example, John F. Lyons’s book, How to Succeed in an Online Class , published in 2011, introduced technology students encounter in online classes. Suppose you read this book. First, enumerate Lyons’ advice, tips, and learning techniques to prevent a student from failing their online course. Then, briefly explain them individually and include examples or proof that his advice helped.

Online schooling has been around for a long time but has only become widespread because of the pandemic. Use this prompt to write your opinion on whether schools should make virtual learning a permanent option for students. Whatever your answer is, explain your reason to your readers.If you’re interested in learning more about essays, check out our essay writing tips !

essay about online classes advantages and disadvantages

Maria Caballero is a freelance writer who has been writing since high school. She believes that to be a writer doesn't only refer to excellent syntax and semantics but also knowing how to weave words together to communicate to any reader effectively.

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Advantages and Disadvantages of Online Classes

Want to learn more about the advantages and disadvantages of online classes ? 

In recent years, online learning has become increasingly popular. However, despite its benefits, it also has disadvantages.  

This article will dive into the pros and cons of online classes and will explore the benefits of online education and its challenges, especially for working professionals. 

By considering both the advantages and disadvantages of online learning, you’ll be able to make a better decision regarding your studies.  

Advantages of Online Classes

Online education gets a lot of hype, but what exactly are the advantages offered by online classes? Let’s unpack the major benefits online studies offer, so you can see for yourself if they offer something for your specific needs . 

Flexibility

One of the main benefits of online learning is the flexibility they provide, allowing students to set their own schedules. 

This flexibility includes the ability to attend classes from anywhere and to fit classes into a busy schedule. 

 At IU International University of Applied Sciences, we take this one step further by also offering flexible exams.  

Convenience

Online classes can also be beneficial for students from remote areas, without access to campuses.  

The advantages of online education in terms of convenience also include the ability to access lectures online, to communicate with professors via e-mail, and access to online platforms and tools that can upgrade your learning experience .  

Cost-Effectiveness

Another advantage of online education is its tendency be more cost-effective than traditional on-campus classes. Online classes often have lower tuition fees , and students don’t need to spend money on location-related expenses.  

pros of online learning in terms of cost-effectiveness also include the potential to save money on textbooks and avoid relocation costs. 

Access to a wider range of programmes and course offerings

Online classes also provide access to a wider range of programmes and course offerings, thanks to the ability to reach more students without the high costs of maintaining physical classrooms.  

Many universities and colleges now offer a wide range of online degree programmes, including Bachelor’s and Master's degrees, in a variety of fields.  

At IU, we offer a wide range of cutting-edge tech and business Bachelor's and Master’s programmes, including specialised MBA degrees. This lets you choose a programme that matches your career ambitions. 

The ability to learn at your own pace

Lastly, another advantage of online education is the ability to learn at your own pace . Every student has their own pace of studying, and this is where the advantages of distance learning really come into play. 

Online classes give you the ability to set your own pace, review material as needed and move through the coursework in a way that suits your learning style.  

Learning at your own pace lets you have ultimate control over your learning process, so it really is one of the biggest benefits of online classes. 

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Disadvantages of online classes

When choosing the right type of studies for you, it's important to consider both the advantages and disadvantages of online education, as the nature of online learning can be quite different than that of traditional on-campus studies. 

Lack of face-to-face interaction

One of the major disadvantages of online education can be the lack of physical interaction, which can make it more challenging for you to communicate with your fellow students and tutors. 

That can make it more difficult for you to create a sense of community, which can be an important factor in your ability to make the most out of your studies.  

To answer this challenge, some online universities offer a strong online community to support you throughout your studies .  

Difficulty staying motivated

Another drawback of online education is the difficulty in maintaining focus when you study on your won. Online education is often done independently , which can make it more challenging to navigate, stay engaged and be motivated.  

Before choosing to study online, it’s crucial that you asses your ability to stick to your plan, be consistent and work hard towards your goals. 

If you choose to study at IU, our study coaches will offer you guidance and support on ways to keep you motivated and on track. 

Limited access to resources and support

When considering the pros and cons of online learning, it’s important to keep in mind that online education sometimes offers limited access to resources and support compared to traditional on-campus classes. 

This is why, when choosing an online university, it’s important to choose the right one for you – a university that offers direct access to all the resources and support you might need. 

Technical difficulties

When studying online, you’re dependent on access to the internet. Technical difficulties such as internet connectivity issues, software compatibility issues, or issues with your laptop, can hinder your ability to access classes. 

One possible solution? At IU, students can access pre-recorded tutorials and study materials from any device, even when they’re offline, by downloading them directly.  

It requires prior planning, but it’s one way to ensure that technical difficulties don’t derail your studies. 

Another possible disadvantage to consider is that online education can lead to feelings of isolation, as students are not physically present in a classroom and may not have the same opportunities to interact with other students and form social connections.  

It’s important to keep this in mind and prepare for it accordingly , but as the pandemic has taught us, there are ways to stay connected with others even if you don’t meet in person. 

Summary: What are the advantages and disadvantages of online classes?

Advantages of online classes for working professionals.

If you’re currently employed and looking to advance in your career by earning a degree while still working full-time, nothing beats the advantages of online education.  

One of the key benefits of online learning for working adults is the flexibility it offers in terms of work and education. If you work full-time during the day, you can still take online classes in the evening. 

You’ll need to make some sacrifices, sure, but you won’t have to do so when it comes to work, your studies or your family – and that’s what matters .  

Online learning allows working professionals to continue working while pursuing an education, which is why it’s such a game-changer .  

Advancing your career no longer means taking a break from working, and spending all your savings or taking a loan in order to afford not to work while you earn a degree. 

This is one of the biggest benefits of online classes: online education gives you the opportunity to advance in your current careers while studying.  

If you want to specialise or learn new skills, studying online allows you to select from a more diverse range of courses. 

With online studies, working professionals can take classes at any time and from any location .  

Do you have a job that requires constant traveling on business trips? Then studying online is a great option. 

Advantages and disadvantages of online classes – a conclusion

The benefits of online learning, like the ability to study on your own schedule, not having to commute, and a wider range of course options, far outweigh the downsides. 

Looking to further your education while still having time for work? Enrolling in classes at an online university like IU is the perfect solution . 

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What are the 5 disadvantages of online classes?

The 5 disadvantages of online classes are:  

  • Lack of face-to-face interaction   
  • Difficulty staying motivated  
  • Limited access to resources and support   
  • Technical difficulties   

What are the 10 advantages of online education?

The 10 advantages of online education are:   

  • Flexibility   
  • Convenience   
  • Cost-effectiveness   
  • Access to a wider range of programmes and course offerings   
  • The ability to learn at your own pace  
  • The flexibility to balance work and education   
  • The ability to continue working while pursuing an education  
  • The opportunity to advance in your current career while earning a degree  
  • The opportunity to take classes at any time and from any location  

What are the advantages of online classes?

The advantages of online classes are best summarised as the ability to study what you want, whenever you want, from anywhere. This makes them more budget-friendly and easier to manage along with the rest of your life responsibilities.  

Why is online education important?

Online education is important because it makes education accessible to more people: students who work full-time, have disabilities, or lack access to on-campus universities in their area, can all study on their own terms and excel. 

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Benefits of Online Learning Essay

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.

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.

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Advantages and Disadvantages of Online Learning

Advantages and Disadvantages of Online Learning: IELTS Writing Task 2 Topic

You must write at least 250 words for IELTS Writing Task 2. You will be given a topic and evaluated on your abilities to answer by expressing and defending your viewpoint, explaining the topic, summarising facts, describing challenges, identifying potential alternatives, and illustrating what you write with explanations, claims, and specific examples from your own expertise or experience.

Today we will read about a very popular topic “Advantages and disadvantages of online learning essay”.

So, let’s get started.

IELTS Writing Task 2 Topic: Advantages and Disadvantages of Online Classes

Let us help you in your IELTS writing preparation with an interesting and informative topic. Read all the 3 sample answers and learn how to approach a topic in different ways.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Online Classes Sample Answer One for IELTS Writing Task 2

Online teaching and learning have grown in popularity among students in recent times, and this is viewed differently by different learners. Many students see this as a helpful learning tool, although others believe it is not as successful as classroom instruction. This article would explore the benefits and drawbacks of digital education.

Also Read: Importance of Art in Society: IELTS Essay Sample for IELTS Writing Task 2 Explained for Band 8

Advantages of Online Classes Essay

Students who study online have more flexibility in their schedules and spend less money on their education. They will study their desired courses and subjects at their own pace. This is a fantastic opportunity for learners to learn new skills and expand their experience while remaining in the comfort of their own home. For example, a Nepali student seeking an Australian degree in business administration does not need to travel to Australia; he can train and complete the course while remaining at home. As a result, distance learning is both cost-effective and time-efficient.

Disadvantages of Studying Online

That being said, online classes offer more emphasis on the analytical aspect of learning and there is less instructor and student contact. It ignores realistic learning elements and encourages passive learning. It is clear that students perceive it to be less successful than classroom instruction. According to a new survey, a larger percentage of students considered classroom instruction to be much more successful than digital education.

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Conclusion: Merits and Demerits of Online Teaching

In conclusion, the ever-increasing availability of digital education has gained traction among young adults for many years and is viewed as helpful by many and less successful by others. The focus should be placed on its efficacy in order to identify it as the most cost-effective learning method other than classroom instruction.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Online Classes Sample Answer Two for IELTS Writing Task 2

Recently, the course has grown in popularity, resulting in more excellent learning options for students. While this movement may have some benefits, it may also have some risks and challenges as a result. Both sides of learning will be addressed in more detail in the following chapters. On the one hand, distance education has certain benefits. For starters, the simplicity of distance learning is essential.

Also Read: IELTS Essay in Writing Task 2: Here’s How to Organize it Well

There is no time constraint and the online classroom and teacher are (theoretically) accessible 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. As a result, students will stick to their schedules without impacting their learning outcomes.

Second, the advantage of learning is that it saves resources. Tuition at online schools is often smaller than at conventional universities. Building repairs, grounds maintenance, food service, class accessories, and other expenses that impact the cost of credits are not needed.

Learners, on the other hand, may suffer from a number of disadvantages of simulated learning. To continue, students can encounter technical issues, which can have a variety of implications.

Furthermore, some students are not equipped with the good internet access that online courses necessitate, and therefore fall behind their simulated classmates: poor monitors find it difficult to obey the course Management.

The system, as well as their learning process, becomes troublesome. Another downside to digital education is the scarcity of accreditation and the poor standard of instruction. The growing demand for digital education has resulted in an uncontrollable proliferation of colleges, including some unregulated schools, and there is no way to check the content of all courses. As a consequence, illegal organisations can con several students out of money.

Finally, online education can be helpful in terms of scheduling flexibility and reduced tuition. However, immersive learning has some drawbacks, including poor student conditions and a lack of quality control over classes.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Online Classes Sample Answer Three for IELTS Writing Task 2

These days, online learning is becoming increasingly popular. Many conventional colleges began to make their classes available for free. It represents a simple and convenient way to gain expertise in almost any area, from law and accounting to social sciences such as sociology, anthropology, and history. Digital education is a fantastic alternative to conventional universities, particularly for people who do not have the time or resources to attend traditional universities. So what are the benefits and drawbacks of online learning?

Also Read: Opinion Essay for IELTS: How to Plan and Write a Perfect Opinion Essay?

While many people still believe that traditional colleges are the only way to gain expertise and obtain a diploma, digital education has proven to be an excellent option. Students should study on their own time, and particularly for free. It is an excellent way to learn a variety of subjects while still increasing self-motivation. Online learning is so successful because students can complete their assignments easily, leaving more time for hobbies or job search.

Access to all of the opportunities of a typical course allows learners to practise wherever they are, giving them the opportunity to prepare wherever they choose. An individual may attend various courses with only an Internet connection. Students’ accountability and self-discipline are among the benefits of digital learning.

Limitations of Online Learning

An individual can only learn properly in a small group. Learners learn at school how to make new friends, be polite, deal with failure, and, most importantly, compete. Competition among colleagues can be very exciting, and students can learn greatly from it. Human contact is not possible for digital learning.

Another drawback is that online classes cannot handle the thousands of students who attempt to participate in debates. Furthermore, if digital education is intended for disciplines that need preparation, it can be challenging.

Conclusion of Studying Online

Finally, digital education can be seen as a supplement to and expansion to traditional ways of learning. Even the best online course cannot completely substitute physical interaction with an instructor or the human connections formed in a group. As a result, standard classes can not be replaced by digital learning.

Any essay can be satisfactory if addressed correctly. It is critical to remember in IELTS writing that each type of essay necessitates a different approach. In the case of an ‘advantage and disadvantage’ essay, a mixture of solid structure and appropriate data is a game-changer. As a result, in order to achieve a 9 band in your exam, you must devote some time to planning and structuring your essay.

If you need more assistance on this, you can simply visit IELTS Ninja .

Also Read: How to Write Agree and Disagree Essays in IELTS? Tips to Write the Perfect Essay

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Thank you for providing the advantages and disadvantages of the online learning, but many prefer online learning over self study, what do you think about it?

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Madhurjya Chowdhury, a web content writer in Ufaber EduTech has a very strong passion for writing and alluring the readers. You can find him writing articles for the betterment of exam aspirants and children. With immense interest in research-based content writing and copywriting, he likes to reach out to more and more people with his creative writing style. On the other side, he is an Electronics and Communication Engineer from LPU, Jalandhar. In his leisure time, he likes to play badminton or read about space discoveries. Apart from this, he is a pro gamer on PC, PS and Mobile gaming platforms.

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Online Classes Advantages and Disadvantages

Online Classes Advantages and Disadvantages | Advantages and Disadvantages of Online Classes Learning

Online Classes Advantages and Disadvantages: Covid 19 has brought drastic changes in everyone’s life. Closure of schools and colleges had made life challenging for the students. Did you know almost 1.5 million are closed due to lockdown? Online classes have brought new hope, new ways of learning for the children. It is an excellent alternative to regular classes or traditional classes. Closings of the schools have interrupted the academic year of the students. For the past 4-5 months, children feel normal as schools have managed to conduct online classes. Now, children are learning new ways of studying using different apps. But online courses are beneficial or not. You will get to know as you read further.

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Was It Essential for The Schools/Coaching Centers To Start Online Classes?

Pandemic was a difficult phase for all. Did you know almost 1.2 billion children are out of schools in this pandemic as the schools are closed? Covid 19 has forced the schools to think about different ways of reaching out to the children as their future is at stake. To date, there is nothing official as to how long the schools will be closed. To strengthen the children’s learning, online classes were the only option left with the educational institutes. On an unprecedented scale, online classes were the best way to make students come into continuity with their academics. Till now, the teachers of schools, colleges, and coaching centers are reaching out to students via the internet for classes. Students now know about their syllabus, their day-to-day teachings and are also giving exams. They are getting into the routine of taking classes and gaining knowledge about their curriculum. This education system is not that effective for younger kids, but as long as the schools are closed, there is no other option left for class five and above kids. Educational institutes must continue with e-learning until there is no announcement made by the educational governments.

How is the Whole Education System Affected, And What Are They Doing for The Kids?

The whole education system is affected by the closure of the schools. A sudden shift from classroom learning to e-learning has made children, and their parents think that this system will continue in the times to come. All those students coming from well-off families have managed to continue with their classes online. But, for students who are poor and cannot afford an internet connection, their future has come to shut down. The same way as the educational institutes have, in this phase of lockdown. But, they need not get disheartened as one such institute has announced free online classes for everyone.

It is BYJUS that has managed to provide a free learning experience to kids across India. After they announced free live classes, this app became one of India’s best edtech companies. After the announcement of free classes, there is a growth of students by almost 200%. Thus, there are institutes like this, who are genuinely thinking about children’s education and their future.

Advantages Of Online Classes

  • Students will be aware of their academic syllabus: Students have become irregular with their studies due to the lockdown. Some don’t even know their course. With the help of online classes, they will understand what they need to study for the whole year. The parents of younger kids get a rough idea about their academic course to help their child in learning properly.
  • Students get the chance to record the class: it is not always that everything becomes clear in a 45 minute or a 60-minute class. Thus, the students get an opportunity to record a class and share the content of the class with others and their parents and friends. They have access to the learning material, the class and can hear the recording at their convenience.
  • Students will be regular and disciplined towards studies : the lockdown phase has put a complete stop. But, with the help of online classes, they are getting into the practice of regular studies. They need to attend the class as attendance is compulsory. Students have also been given a link that helps them join a particular class that allows them to be aware and concentrate on their studies. Homework is given by the teachers that help the student recollect what has been taught in the online class. Moreover, teachers are taking weekly tests online, which makes them understand what the child has understood.
  • Online classes keep the child engaged: None of the children were regular with their studies during the lockdown. Online classes have made the students regular in their day-to-day courses. They are no more wasting their time playing video games, making mischief, and watching TV. Online classes have set a routine for the kids and keep them engaged for a few hours.
  • There are fewer distractions during studies:   When the child is in the class, they either keep playing with other friends or are engaged in making mischief. But, here in the online class, the child is attending the class alone, and there are lesser chances of the child getting distracted. They can concentrate better and hear what the teacher says and explains.
  • Parents get aware of the child’s day-to-day learning: As the child is doing 3-5 classes every day, the parents are updated with what their children are learning. Parents may also look over their child’s study material. Parents feel more responsible towards studies as the child is learning everything through online classes. It becomes the responsibility of the parent to see whether the class is connected properly, to see whether their child has any queries regarding any question, course, or homework.
  • Efficient and productive for the teacher and the student:  through online teaching, the content can be shared with the students through PDF, images, and videos. The teachers find efficient ways to make the classes clear to the students. Making lesson plans using pdf and videos becomes easy. Apart from the textbooks, there are a plethora of options to study and understand the content.

Online Classes Advantages

Disadvantages Of Online Classes

  • Network Issues And Connection Failure : One of the significant issues with online classes is more chances of network issues and interruption. Due to bad weather conditions, the connection can get lost, and the class can be interrupted. The data over, signal lost are two.
  • Doubts are not very clear : Classes at school can be interesting as the teacher is right in front of you, like a one-to-one session. You can ask your doubts on the spot. But in an online class, if one child raises their hand, everyone does it for fun. Doubts are not very clear if everyone keeps asking one after the other by switching on their mike. This cannot be very pleasant for the teacher as well as the students.
  • It brings a feeling of isolation: when studying alone, one feels as if they are in a state of isolation. Learning alone with a computer can be monotonous and can be a terrible experience. Regular classes at school are fun-filled as the teacher and friends are there in the class. Doing the online classes with parents or alone can be uninteresting.
  • The chances of getting distracted are high: as the students are doing their online classes using the internet. They can get distracted by chatting with their friends while doing the class on whats app. Opening Social media accounts while doing online classes can distract the mind of children. There is a lack of continuity in learning for the child.
  • Students cannot focus on the class: if they keep asking their doubts while the class is going on, other students get distracted and cannot concentrate on what the teacher is teaching. Students cannot focus on the class with full concentration if the class is for long hours. Sharing the screen with the children becomes irritating for the teacher as the children misuse it.
  • The teacher cannot focus on each child: as the teacher is online, focusing on each student as they tend to switch off their screen. The teacher cannot see each child and has to scroll on the id of each child to solve their issues. This is a significant problem that teachers face while taking classes online.
  • Eye-sight issues: doing online classes can lead to eye-sight problems as the child is in front of the computer for a long time. Each school or coaching class schedules three to five classes each day. Thus, staying in front of the screen can be harmful to the eyes.
  • Not all students can afford internet access: this is one of the demerits of online classes that not all students of a school can afford an internet connection and a smartphone. According to a survey conducted by the government in 2019, only 24 % of the students in India have internet connections in their homes.

Conclusion on Online Classes Advantages and Disadvantages

COVID has affected everyone, those who are well-off and those who are barely earning their living. Pandemic has disrupted the education system too. It is the duty of the educational institutes to make everyone get the benefits of online classes. Face-to-face communication between students and teachers is not possible, seeing the condition of the lockdown. Thus, teachers need to find different ways to make the classes more interactive so that children can enjoy them and concentrate wholeheartedly.

Home — Essay Samples — Education — Online Vs. Traditional Classes — Advantages And Disadvantages Traditional Learning And Online Classes

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Comparative Analysis of Traditional Learning and Online Classes

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Essay on Advantages and Disadvantages of Online Study

Online study has become a trend and more schools are opting for it with each passing day; more so, in the wake of COVID-19 lockdown. I am giving below three essays of varying lengths covering the advantages and disadvantages of online study.

Short and Long Essay on Advantages and Disadvantages of Online Study in English

You should go through these to know more about all the pros and cons of the online study:

Advantages and Disadvantages of Online Study Essay 10 Lines (100 – 150 Words)

1) Online study refers to the process of gaining knowledge via the internet.

2) It is really the convenient way of studying.

3) Online study saves your precious time and money.

4) You can study online from any corner of the world.

5) Variety of courses are available while studying online.

6) In an online study a good study environment is missing.

7) Subjects that involve practical knowledge cannot be easily understood in online studies.

8) Sitting in front of electronic gadgets for a long time causes health hazards.

9) Online study lacks physical interaction between students and teachers.

10) Online study is for those students who can generate self-discipline.

Essay 1 (250 Words) – Online Study: Good or Bad for Students

Introduction

Online study is becoming popular due to its convenience and easy operation. In the essay, I have given below some advantages and disadvantages of the online study method.

The online method of study has several advantages. It is very convenient as both you and your teacher can interact from the convenience of your respective homes. You can also ask questions and raise queries as you use to do in the classroom.

The online study method becomes more important in case of a natural calamity of emergency. The perfect example in this regard is the recent COVID 19 pandemic that the world is still recovering from. To date, many schools are running online classes, for the safety of students. Online study is indeed a safer alternative to school education.

Disadvantages

Apart from numerous advantages, the online method of the study also presents certain disadvantages. It lacks the filled with enthusiasm kind of environment presented by a classroom. The lively and joyful ambience of a classroom is usually lacking in an online session. Teachers and students interact with each other only on subject matters on one by one basis.

Moreover, overexposure to gadgets presents its own health hazards like headache, weak eyesight and lack of concentration, etc.

Despite the disadvantages, the online study method proved to be beneficial in certain specific conditions. When it is not advisable to leave your home, or it isn’t convenient for you, then in that case online study becomes a blessing in disguise.

Essay 2 (400 Words) – Disadvantages of Online Study

The online system of education has both advantages and disadvantages. We will discuss the advantages in the next essay, in this essay we will concentrate only on the disadvantages. I have given below some of the main disadvantages of online study.

How Online Study is not Good for Students

Despite being advantageous in many ways, the online system of the study also has several disadvantages. Please find below some of the important disadvantages of online study.

  • Self-Controlled

The success of an online session depends only on your own conduct that on anything else. How keen you are on learning things will decide whether the session was beneficial or not. Your teacher might not be able to see you, so you are at your liberty. It depends on how well you control your deflections and concentrates on the session.

  • Depends on Honesty

This is a significant shortcoming of online study. While in the classroom you have the continuous attention of your teacher; he/she doesn’t have that liberty in an online class. He/she relies completely on how honestly the students attend the class. It isn’t possible for them to watch everyone in an online session.

  • Only Course Related Communication

Often an online classroom session is only to the point where the only subject matter is discussed. The usual classroom atmosphere where the teacher personally interacts and crack jokes is absent. In a classroom teacher can talk about several other things while in an online class he/she only teaches the subject.

  • Over Exposure to Screen

Online study requires electronic screen gadgets to conduct the classes. Students have to stare into the screens for long hours, sometimes 2 to 3 hours continuously. Such a long exposure top screen has its own impacts on health depending on individual immunity levels. However, it may cause headaches, vision issues in some people.

  • Limited Interaction

Though the interaction between teacher and student in an online session is uninterrupted; nevertheless, it is also limited. The teacher has to attend to the queries of other students as well, so he/she may not be in a condition to give more than a couple of minutes to each student.

Nothing is perfect; nor is the online study method. It sure has its own disadvantages; nevertheless, it can prove really advantageous in certain critical situations. For example, in the wake of the lockdown following the COVID-19 pandemic, it came as a blessing in disguise for many schools and their students.

Essay on Advantages and Disadvantages of Online Study

Essay 3 (500 – 600 Words) – How Online Study is Good for Students

Online study is a digital mode of education wherein the teacher and students interact using digital devices like laptops, smartphones, tabs, etc. This method of study has become a trend today as it is the best option in case of pandemic spread wherein it is advisable to not leave home. In wake of the COVID-19 pandemic many schools have taken up the online mode of studies and are doing fairly well.

How Online Study is Good for Students

Online mode of study has its own advantages. It is convenient and also a very cheap method of study. Given below are some of the main advantages of online study.

Online mode of study is a convenient method both for the students as well as the teachers. Both can actively participate in a knowledgeable session without even stepping out of their houses. They just need to have access to a good internet network and device to connect. You can sit comfortably in your room with the required textbooks and attend a class with your classmates.

Online study is pretty cheap that convention school education, due to a couple of reasons. Firstly, you need not to spend even a penny on your transportation to school and back; secondly, all the other miscellaneous expenses at school get reduced. Sometimes even the textbooks are also available online and are priced much lower than the hard copies. You can download one at your convenience and they all have the same content as real books. In fact, you only need to spend on the internet connection, that’s all!

There is absolutely no doubt that the online study is a safe alternative in case of a threat. It could be a blessing in disguise if it is too dangerous to step out of your house. We all are well aware of the COVID 19 pandemic that has put the entire planet under lockdown. Also, students don’t come in physical proximity with each other, thereby, reducing the possibility of disease spread. Thankfully, students are attending regular online classes and don’t have to fall back on course.

  • Flexibility

Online study has tremendous potential in terms of flexibility of curses and curriculums. There are some universities that provide online certificate courses in whichever subject you chose. Everything from registration to exam is carried out through online mode. Also, there is flexibility in time. If you joined a little late, you need not to worry, as the session gets recorded and you can review it anytime.

Another advantage of online education that it reduces the use of paper. The paper requirement for a digital mode of study is almost negligible as compared to a classroom system. You only need to take notes in your textbook while your teacher can do well without any paper. Moreover, online study tests are also conducted online; thereby, reducing the possibility of paper use.

  • Overcome Hesitation

Online study has much better student-teacher interaction than in the case of a classroom environment. Distractions usually present in a classroom, are absent in an online session, letting the students concentrate on the lecture. Moreover, students become more responsive in an online class as they overcome their hesitation in only a one to one interaction with the teacher.

An online mode of study is a fusion of technology and education. It indicates how well an education system can take advantage of new technology and strive for growth and improvement. This mode of education could be a step towards revolutionizing the education system in a never seen before form.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions

Ans . The University of Toronto introduced the first online course in the world.

Ans . Jonathan Rochelle invented the Google classroom app meant for online teaching.

Ans . The term e-learning was coined by Elliott Masie.

Ans . E-Learning begins in India in 2006 and was initiated through a project E-Gyankosh by IGNOU.

Ans . It enables the students to study from any place with a proper internet connection.

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Advantages and disadvantages of studying an online course (Corrected Essay)

Advantages and disadvantages of studying an online course (Corrected Essay)

In the last decade, there has been a great increase in the number and variety of online courses available to adults. This has been welcomed as a great opportunity by many students, however, other students see these courses as less effective than classroom teaching.

Topic: In the last decade, there has been a great increase in the number and variety of online courses available to adults. This has been welcomed as a great opportunity by many students, however, other students see these courses as less effective than classroom teaching.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of studying an online course?

Sample answer

In recent years, distance teaching and learning has become increasingly popular among the students and this is perceived differently by learners. Many students perceive this as a beneficial aid in learning while others think that they are not as much effective as classroom teaching. This essay will discuss about the merits and demerits of distant learning.

Studying an online course provides a flexible timing and less budgeted learning for students. They are able to learn their desire course and subjects on their suitable time. This gives a great opportunity for learners to gain new skills and strengthen their knowledge level staying in their own place. For instance, a Nepali student who wants an Australian degree in business management course does not have to stay in Australia, he can study online and complete course staying at his home. Hence, distant learning is economic and time saving.

However, online courses give more emphasis on the theoretical part of learning and there is less teacher and student interaction. It lacks the practical aspects of learning and encourage the passive learning. This is very obvious that students find it as a less effective learning than in the classroom. A recent study suggests that a greater number of students found classroom teaching far more effective than the distance learning.

In conclusion, the ever growing availability of online learning has gained its popularity among the young adults for many years, which is perceived as beneficial by many people while others find it to be less effective. The emphasis can be given to its effectiveness to establish it as the most cost effective learning than the classroom teaching.

(Written by Susa Dhakal)

In recent years, distance teaching and learning has become increasingly popular among the students , and this trend is perceived differently by learners. Many students perceive this it as a beneficial aid an improvement in learning techniques, while others think that they are it is not as much effective as classroom teaching learning . This essay will discuss about the merits and demerits of distant learning.

There is no need to start your essay with a general present time expression like “in recent years”, especially if you have used the present perfect progressive tense.

In the first sentence, since you use the word “has”, you can only write “distance learning” (singular), not “distance teaching and learning” (plural).

You only mention students in the first sentence, so talking about “teaching” is inappropriate. If you had mentioned both the teachers and students, then “distance teaching and learning” would have been a fine approach.

“And this is perceived differently by learners.” It is unclear whether “this” could be interpreted as which object. This kind of mistake is called “unclear antecedent”, and I suggest you write more clearly.

Generally, English speakers do not say “beneficial aid”. And it is usually used as “financial assistance”, rather than “improvement”

Remember to put a comma before a subordinate conjunction (“and”), or a relative pronoun (“which”).

“to discuss” does not go with a preposition.

The last sentence in this introduction is decent. The author has written a concise thesis statement. He also does not state his own opinion, which is good since it isn’t required by the topic question.

Good use of lexical resource here: “distance learning”, “classroom teaching”.

Studying in an online course provides a flexible timing schedule and less budgeted expense learning for the students. They are able to learn their desire desired course and subjects on their suitable time. This gives a great opportunity for learners to gain new skills and strengthen accumulate their knowledge level , while still staying in their own place. For instance, a Nepali student who wants an Australian degree in business management course does not have to stay in Australia, because he can study online and complete course by staying at his home. Hence, distant learning is economic economically efficient and time saving time-saving .

“ Timing ” as a noun is only used as “a particular moment”, not “ a schedule ”. On the other hand, the verb “to time” can be used as “to plan a schedule”.

You should learn more synonyms of “ schedule ”. You are showing your weak point in Lexical Resources here.

The correct collocation here is “ to accumulate knowledge ”, not “ to strengthen knowledge ”.

Don’t forget the hyphen in the word “ time-saving ”

Forget to use prepositions and/or articles will make it hard to you to get above 7 in Grammatical Range & Accuracy.

While the author has written a good topic sentence, his idea and evidence are kinda repetitive in this paragraph.

However, online courses give more emphasis on the theoretical part of learning and there is less teacher and student teacher-student interaction. It lacks the practical aspects of learning and encourage encourages the passive learning. This is very obvious that As a result, students find it as a less effective learning method than that of in the classroom. A recent study suggests that a greater number of students found classroom teaching far more effective than the distance learning teaching .

Good coherence. The second body paragraph is used solely to support the notion of classroom learning, while the first one is for e-learning. And the paragraph structure is decent.

Avoid using phrase like “a recent study”. Which study is the author referring to? It is impossible to get reference in the IELTS exam.

There are many grammar mistakes throughout the whole essay.

Good lexical resource: teacher-student interaction, practical aspects of learning, passive learning.

In conclusion, the ever growing availability of online learning has gained its popularity among the young adults for many years, which is perceived as beneficial by many people while others find it to be less effective. The emphasis can be given to its effectiveness to establish it as the most a more cost effective cost-effective learning method than the classroom teaching.

The last sentence is very wordy and ungrammatical. In addition, it is not a good conclusion, due to the fact that the author does not mention the idea of teacher-student interaction. If the author only supports the argument for e-learning, then it looks like he is giving his own opinion - which isn’t required. Stay faithful to your ideas and evidences.

“more than”, not “most than”.

Overall: 7.0

Task Response: 7

✓ addresses all parts of the task (the author writes more than 250 words) ✓ presents a clear position throughout the response (the conclusion is kinda unclear, but overall the author has done well) ✓ presents, extends and supports main ideas, but there may be a tendency to overgeneralise and/or supporting ideas may lack focus (the author has provided evidences and/or examples for his arguments)

Coherence and Cohesion: 7

✓ logically organises information and ideas; there is clear progression throughout

✓ uses a range of cohesive devices appropriately although there may be some under-/over-use (the author needs to use more connectives and less “this is”)

✓ presents a clear central topic within each paragraph (the author has done well on this part)

Lexical Resource: 7

✓ uses a sufficient range of vocabulary to allow some flexibility and precision

✓ uses less common lexical items with some awareness of style and collocation (various mistakes in terms of collocation makes it impossible to rate this criterion more than 7)

✓ may produce occasional errors in word choice, spelling and/or word formation

Grammatical Range and Accuracy: 6

✓ uses a mix of simple and complex sentence forms ✓ makes some errors in grammar and punctuation but they rarely reduce communication (there are only 2 error-free sentences in the whole essay, so it’s impossible to give a 7+ score on this criterion)

----------------------------------------------------------

This essay is corrected by  Anh Tran  -   Let's Write Something Group .

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Essay on Advantages and Disadvantages of Online Classes

Now days online learning is one of the imminent trends in the education sector across the world. There are numerous  advantages of online classes but it has some disadvantages also. The pandemic has also increased the demand online classes. Essay on advantages and disadvantages of online classes has become popular topic for essay writing now days. Here we are writing an essay on advantage and disadvantages of online classes for all of you. This will be helpful in your essay writing skill as well as it strengthen the knowledge about advantages and disadvantages of online classes . 

In this era of technology online classes system of learning turns out to be more and more popular world wide. Many traditional schools and universities started to share their courses through online classes . They started classes online and students are attending the online classes from ease of their home. Online classes or online method of learning presents an easy and comfortable method to achieve knowledge. Online classes have now become great alternative to traditional classes. It has numerous advantages but at the same time online classes has some disadvantage also. Below are some important advantages and disadvantages of online classes .

essay about online classes advantages and disadvantages

Advantages of Online Classes

Although many people still consider traditional classes as the best way for learning but in this technological age online classes system of learning proves to be a great alternative of traditional classes. In online class system students have the chance to study from the easy of their home. Students can take classes at the time when they preferred as most of the classes are recorded.  Online classes system of learning helps participants to learn whenever they want to learn, leaving them the freedom to choose the time for study.  Many schools, institutions and universities are providing online classes free of costs . Thus online classes are helpful for those students who earlier could not pay fees. Now they are accessing these online classes online for free.  Among the advantages of online classes system of learning there are the responsibility and self-discipline of students in online class system. Download PDF of this Essay: Click Here .

Disadvantages of Online Classes

At school or in traditional class system students learn how to make friends, how to behave with teacher and friends, how to get rid of disappointment etc. The main work of personality development of students can be done through traditional classes. In online classes these all are missing. Online learning cannot offer face to face human interaction which are very important for personality development.

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Online classes system can be difficult for some persons who don't know the proper use of technological instruments. For small children online classes requires great disciplines and practice. It also requires more interventions of parents in case of small children. In online classes student use electronic devices like mobile, tablet, laptops or computer. Use of these devices for longer time will badly affect the health of students.

essay about online classes advantages and disadvantages

In conclusion, it is to say that this is the time of technology thus online classes are good for many of the reasons but traditional classes system have many advantages that should not be ignored fully. Now we should take advantage of both online as well as offline classes.

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Essay on Advantages and Disadvantages of Online Classes

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Essay on Advantages and Disadvantages of Online Classes

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Written by Shiksha Press

Published on: February 4, 2023

Advantages and Disadvantages of Online Classes

Online classes have become a popular alternative to traditional in-person classes due to the COVID-19 pandemic. While online classes offer several advantages, they also come with certain disadvantages.

Advantages of Online Classes:

Flexibility: Online classes provide students with the flexibility to attend classes at any time and place, as long as they have access to the internet. This allows students to balance their academic and personal commitments.

Reduced costs: Online classes are typically more cost effective than traditional classes, as they eliminate the need for students to commute to a physical classroom and can save money on textbooks and materials.

Access to resources: Online classes provide students with access to a wide range of resources, including online lectures, discussion boards, and multimedia presentations.

Increased engagement: Online classes can be more engaging than traditional classes, as students can participate in interactive activities and discussions with their peers and instructors.

Disadvantages of Online Classes:

Isolation: Online classes can be isolating, as students do not have the opportunity to interact with their peers and instructors in person. This can lead to feelings of loneliness and a lack of motivation.

Technical difficulties: Technical difficulties such as poor internet connectivity, hardware issues, and software problems can disrupt the learning experience and negatively impact student performance.

Lack of structure: Online classes lack the structure and discipline of traditional classes, which can be challenging for some students.

Reduced interaction: Online classes may not provide the same level of interaction and feedback as traditional classes, which can limit student learning and progress.

In conclusion, online classes offer several advantages , including flexibility, cost savings, and access to resources. However, they also come with certain disadvantages, such as isolation, technical difficulties, lack of structure, and reduced interaction. Whether online classes are the right choice for a particular student will depend on their individual needs and preferences.

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  1. The pros and cons of online learning

    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.

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  3. 20 Advantages and Disadvantages of Online Classes

    List of the Advantages of Online Classes. 1. Online classes provide more flexibility to incorporate multiple learning styles. Although you can earn a healthy salary without going to college in some trades, many employment opportunities require an undergraduate degree or higher to obtain a position.

  4. Advantages And Disadvantages Of Online Learning

    This allows students to access the learning material at a time of their comfort. Thus, online learning offers students the accessibility of time and place in education. 3. Affordability. Another advantage of online learning is reduced financial costs. Online education is far more affordable as compared to physical learning.

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    As a college student, the choice between taking courses online or in-person can be a difficult one.While online classes provide flexibility and convenience, they also come with their own set of challenges. In this essay, we will explore the advantages and disadvantages of online classes, their impact on academic performance and student well-being, and the practical skills they can help develop.

  6. Are Online Classes Worth It? The Pros & Cons

    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 ...

  7. Online Education: Pros and Cons

    With the help of online education, they can plan their study themselves, taking into consideration their working schedule, family needs, and amount of spare time. As for the second argument of this side, it is also good because people study themselves depending only upon their wish, and no teacher can make them study (Deane, 2005, pp. 34 - 54).

  8. 8 Pros and Cons of Online Learning

    Con: You May Have Trouble Getting to Know People. One of the main cons of online learning is that it can be difficult to form personal relationships with classmates and professors. Traditional on-campus learning offers many opportunities to get to know others and build camaraderie through things like in-person classes, clubs, and social events.

  9. The Advantages and Disadvantages of Learning in Online Classes in 2023

    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.

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

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  11. What We're Learning About Online Learning

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  12. Impact of Online Classes on Students Essay

    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.

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    The writer concludes that while traditional schools prepare students for the real world by interacting with diverse people, online schools help students become more self-motivated to stand out. 5. Short Essay on Online Classes by Anonymous on Byjus.Com. "The advantages of online classes take over their disadvantages.

  14. Advantages and Disadvantages of Online Classes

    The ability to learn at your own pace. Lastly, another advantage of online education is the ability to learn at your own pace. Every student has their own pace of studying, and this is where the advantages of distance learning really come into play. Online classes give you the ability to set your own pace, review material as needed and move ...

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  16. Advantages and Disadvantages of Online Learning: IELTS ...

    Advantages of Online Classes Essay. There is no time constraint and the online classroom and teacher are (theoretically) accessible 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. As a result, students will stick to their schedules without impacting their learning outcomes. Second, the advantage of learning is that it saves resources.

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    To share the advantages and disadvantages of online classes during lockdown with friends and others, we have also given a shareable image of online classes' pros & cons in png format. Exploring more topics related to advantages and disadvantages is the perfect way to gain general knowledge.

  18. Online Classes Advantages and Disadvantages

    Conclusion on Online Classes Advantages and Disadvantages. COVID has affected everyone, those who are well-off and those who are barely earning their living. Pandemic has disrupted the education system too. It is the duty of the educational institutes to make everyone get the benefits of online classes.

  19. Advantages And Disadvantages Traditional Learning And Online Classes

    There is no doubt that education is the only tool to become successful. It gives us the opportunity to become a full-fledged member of a society we belong, by gaining all the necessary abilities.

  20. Essay on Advantages and Disadvantages of Online Study

    Advantages and Disadvantages of Online Study Essay 10 Lines (100 - 150 Words) 1) Online study refers to the process of gaining knowledge via the internet. 2) It is really the convenient way of studying. 3) Online study saves your precious time and money. 4) You can study online from any corner of the world.

  21. Advantages and disadvantages of studying an online course (Corrected Essay)

    Studying an online course provides a flexible timing and less budgeted learning for students. They are able to learn their desire course and subjects on their suitable time. This gives a great opportunity for learners to gain new skills and strengthen their knowledge level staying in their own place.

  22. Essay on Advantages and Disadvantages of Online Classes

    Now days online learning is one of the imminent trends in the education sector across the world. There are numerous advantages of online classes but it has some disadvantages also. The pandemic has also increased the demand online classes. Essay on advantages and disadvantages of online classes has become popular topic for essay writing now days. Here we are writing an essay on advantage and ...

  23. Essay on Advantages and Disadvantages of Online Classes

    In conclusion, online classes offer several advantages, including flexibility, cost savings, and access to resources. However, they also come with certain disadvantages, such as isolation, technical difficulties, lack of structure, and reduced interaction. Whether online classes are the right choice for a particular student will depend on their ...

  24. Advantages And Disadvantages Of Online Learning

    Advantages And Disadvantages Of Online Learning | Online Classes/e-Learning Advantages and Disadvantages, Benefits and Drawbacks