E-learning is web-based learning that includes learning through emails, live lectures, videoconferencing, etc. You don’t have to physically attend classes or go through the rigour of sleeping late and waking up early to attend classes. However, eLearning is not without its drawbacks.
When you want to start an e-learning program, you have to see electronics accessories gadgets companies reviews on BritainReviews to know what type of electronic gadgets you will need for your online course and where to buy them. Here are both the pros and cons of e-learning:
Affordable and accessible
Compared to the cost of attending a traditional learning institution, eLearning is very affordable. Students don’t have to spend money on commuting from their homes to schools or pay fees such as accommodation fees, maintenance fees, etc. Besides, you can access the platform from anywhere in the world. As such, this reduces absenteeism since no one needs to start rushing down to school. Students can also access the course materials as many times as they want, as they are available throughout. Lectures can also be recorded and shared with a wider audience.
More efficient
Conventional education has been attacked due to its complex theories; most of what is taught isn’t put into practice. As such, students don’t have a complete idea of what they are learning. It is always a shock for them when they step into the bigger world and realize that most of the theories learned in school are not practical. However, e-learning bridges that gap. It has multimedia features such as audio, videos, resource links, etc. that provide students with more practical knowledge. For instance, students can watch videos and tutorials buttressing what the teacher teaches.
However, here are some of the drawbacks of e-learning:
It can be distracting
Learning on a computer can be distracting for most students. This is because they can easily navigate away from the site to check out comedy and entertainment videos, play games, etc, especially if such students are focus deficit. It is difficult for the average human to focus on educational content for hours; as such, in eLearning, students get easily bored. Teachers have to work harder to keep their sessions interactive and interesting enough.
It can have issues
Even though internet penetration has grown bigger in most countries of the world, a lot of people still have no access to a device and internet connection. As such, students who fall in this category are stuck with the traditional means of education. Besides, it is likely technical issues arise during online classes. For instance, there can be a break in connectivity in the middle of a test. Also, a student who is technophobic will have issues learning. As efficient as online learning is, it doesn’t work for everybody.
No social interaction
Research shows that people learn most of what they know by being around others. However, online learning eliminates the opportunity for social interaction that both students and teachers will enjoy. For instance, in the traditional context of education, students meet and discuss ideas, assignments, projects, etc. This, also called peer learning, helps easy retention and increases students’ intelligence. Although, some online platforms have found a way to introduce social interaction by creating forums where students can network and share ideas.