From being a mere stop-gap measure, online schooling is now widely accepted as a legitimate and viable method of education. And even as the world opens up and settles in the new normal, it will remain a compelling choice in learning.
Online education is not new, but it was only during the lockdowns and school closures that it has become an essential and indispensable method of education in virtually any field. Supported by the enormous development of educational technology, it has established itself as a vital and viable way of learning that effectively complements, or even substitutes, traditional face-to-face classes.
Online learning is flexible
Online schooling has given students the freedom to control the pace of their learning. Now, they have access to study materials and class recordings anytime and anywhere. They can review the sessions as many times as needed, or answer drills & exercises until they're happy with the results. Whenever they miss a class or encounter technical problems, they can easily re-watch the videos and catch up on their lessons.
This is particularly important when learning foreign languages. Thanks to the ready availability of resources, students can practice and be familiar with new words and expressions when and where they are comfortable.
Online learning is immersive
Gone are the days of passive and boring classes, and outdated learning materials.
Online schooling has allowed educators to introduce interactive, creative and engaging teaching materials. Educators nowadays, especially language teachers, use online games, video presentations, animations, collaborative boards and virtual conference rooms in their classes. Online education has made it possible for students to have an active and immersive studying experience, which has been proven to enhance the efficiency and effectivity of learning.
Online learning is cost-effective
Online courses are considerably cheaper than face-to-face courses. Students don't have to spend on transportation, buy books, eat out or waste time in traffic. Online schools save on rent, teaching equipment and other operational expenses, and this enables them to pass on the savings to the students.
Language courses are traditionally expensive because of the expertise, resources and tools needed to effectively conduct classes. Thanks to shifting online and the efficient use of technology, foreign language courses are now more pocket-friendly and accessible to more people, without sacrificing on quality.
Online learning bridges distances
Online education allows people from different countries to convene in a "virtual" classroom. How else could an expert Korean teacher based in Seoul share his expertise to students in the Philippines? Or a sought-after French teacher give a virtual tour of his city to students from different time zones? Or a Spanish language book only sold in Europe be used and studied by pupils in Asia?
Online learning has made the world smaller, and widened the horizon of people. It has offered the possibility of experiencing different cultures, gaining new learnings and seeing the world in a different light, without leaving home. Thanks to online learning, education is no longer hindered by distance nor time!
Final Word: Online learning breaks down barriers
Online learning has made education accessible to more people. It has eliminated majority of the barriers that used to hinder effective learning. Now, language courses are more affordable, flexible, engaging and inclusive.
Gone are the days when students have to travel through hours of traffic just to get to school. Or pay an arm and a leg to be taught by a professional language tutor. Or sit through hours of boring lectures and repetitions that don't work. Or feel anxious, intimidated or embarrassed at the sight of a constricted classroom.
Online learning has indeed become a legitimate, viable and effective method of learning. And with all its advantages and the benefits it offers, it will remain a compelling choice for people looking to take up and study any course.
Comments