Write an essay about this topic: What are the pros and cons of online learning?
Answers
Answer:
Online education is becoming more and more popular amongst students around the world. Although many people consider an online degree to be a lesser form of education, they would be surprised to learn that a recent study undertaken by SRI International (on behalf of the U.S. Department of Education) concluded that “on average, students in online learning conditions performed better than those receiving face-to-face instruction.” This study echoes the sentiments of many students, whether they study English, Economics or Engineering – it is time to start taking online education seriously.
Pro: Increased Flexibility
The biggest advantage to studying online is the increase in flexibility. You can study when you want to, how you want to, where you want to. This does not mean that the workload is less for a student studying online, only that they have more flexibility in when, how and where they study. This flexibility is why an online education is very popular with mature-age students who have other commitments, such as work or children.
Con: Reputation
Many firms and institutions are quick to dismiss an online education. If two candidates are interviewed who are exactly in the same in every respect, except one studied at a conventional university and the other studied online, in many cases the student who studied online will miss out.
A positive sign is that many traditional universities, such as the Melbourne Business School, have extended enrolment to online students. But until online education becomes more commonplace and accepted in society, reputation remains a definite disadvantage.
Online learning serves as a boon, but at the same time offers some cons as well.
- Education has experienced considerable changes, with the introduction of e-learning, where teaching and classes are conducted remotely and via digital means. However, there are advantages and disadvantages.
Pros
- As per the research, this mode of education increases knowledge retention and seizes lower time.
- As a result of the high demand for their services, a number of online platforms have extended their worldwide server infrastructure and technical skills to assure consistent connectivity.
Cons
- Studying at home through an online medium, can often lead to social isolation. This can also cause a lack of various developmental skills.
- The online platform requires strong motivation skills, which is often found missing, also the feedback is limited.