The use of virtual classrooms and digital learning won’t surprise anyone these days, yet e-learning is not always a bed of roses. There are obvious pros and cons to the process that are related to both technical and mental learning challenges. As the Covid-19 pandemic has shown, the majority of students and educators were not ready to learn in a digital environment or cope with the steep learning curve. While there were obvious benefits like flexibility and individual tracking of a learner’s progress, it still could not outweigh the rest of the challenges that were faced. Finally, it all comes down to your objectives and the compromises you can or cannot handle. Once these are outlined, it becomes clear whether e-learning is the way to go!
Pros and Cons of E-Learning: Is it Right For You?
- Pros:
– Flexibility.
One of the most obvious benefits of e-learning relates to flexibility, as one can choose specific learning schedules or introduce major changes to the curriculum. If a learner belongs to ESL students, young parents, college athletes, someone going through healthcare challenges, or part-time jobs, flexibility will be essential. Delivery of assignments on time might still be an issue as it’s like any other type of learning, so do not be afraid to consider TopWritersReview as one of the options for e-learning tasks. It works as a great solution for those times when you have to do things fast and avoid the most common mistakes.
– Individual Learning Methods.
Another advantage relates to the possibility of individual learning, where a teacher or online educator can provide custom-tailored assistance. It is especially useful for the field of special education and those learners who face ADHD, PTSD, or dyslexia challenges, among other things. This type of individuality makes e-learning extremely beneficial for those learners who want to take a different route or adjust existing (default) learning methods to their career objectives or personal vision.
- Cons:
– Technical and Healthcare Challenges.
Contrary to popular belief, most young learners who had to face e-learning have found it rather challenging. Starting from adjusting to the virtual conferences via Zoom to trying to upload their assignments correctly, even those that spend their time online and are busy playing video games are not happy with e-learning. Some other technical challenges are related to accessibility and having to spend more time in front of computer screens. It also places additional strain on eyesight and posture problems. Combining healthcare and technical factors, e-learning often results in excessive levels of stress and anxiety.
– Varied Quality of Online Learning Platforms.
Although this issue is not widely discussed, it’s important to understand that e-learning is always linked to a specific online learning platform. Also known as the LMS systems, these mostly follow the same formula of a virtual environment where teachers offer tasks, and students upload them once they are complete. Some systems offer additional online interaction methods. Regardless if you choose Canvas, Google Classroom, or Blackboard, there will be certain things to learn. It is a part of online learning that must be considered! Luckily, most of these platforms can run on average machines, yet adjusting your existing apps and ways of completing tasks may undergo certain changes. Make sure to read the reviews and compatibility feedback before you start. Always take time to explore helpful user tips for the specific virtual learning solution.
The Challenges of Emotional Bonding
This aspect is one of the new challenges of e-learning, yet not many learners are aware of that if they have not tried the digital realm before. The main problem here is the lack of a physical connection or emotional bonding with the subject. It is especially relevant to younger learners who have a shorter attention span and can easily get distracted unless they are controlled by the physical presence of a teacher. Older learners may perceive e-learning as yet another laptop or tablet-based task that feels just like browsing through social media. There is no emotional bond to what one has to learn or tactile sensing that takes place when one reads a textbook in print. It’s an important digital learning factor worth considering and researching.
BIO
Ruby Butz is a technology explorer who loves to find positive connections with the world of e-learning. As an educator and content analyst, she loves to explore anything from social media learning to innovative teaching methods online. Follow Ruby to take your studies to another level and find inspiration.