Online classes have become an important form of education during the Covid-19 pandemic. Students and teachers can work remotely while connecting with people around the globe.
This article will outline the advantages and differences of online classes as opposed to more traditional teaching techniques, and compare online versus in-person classes.
Flexibility
Online classes provide many students with greater flexibility when studying at any time that fits into their schedules, especially those with full-time jobs, families and other responsibilities. Furthermore, these courses can be accessed from anywhere with internet connectivity allowing students to study anytime it suits them best.
Online education also boasts more interactivity. Universities typically post videos of lectures for students to watch at their own leisure and digest, enabling them to ask questions and engage with lecturers without disrupting class time.
Online learning also breaks down barriers for rural area students who may not have access to traditional university programs, and allows them to receive higher quality education while reaching their career goals. To succeed, however, students must remain motivated and self-disciplined in order to manage their workload and adhere to a schedule to avoid falling behind.
Accessibility
Accessibility is the principle that all individuals should enjoy equal opportunities Regardless of their abilities or circumstances. While equality calls for one-size-fits-all solutions, accessibility focuses on designing for equity while understanding specific conditions of inaccessibility that affect a person or group.
Online classes provide the convenience of attending from any location with internet connectivity, catering to students with various learning styles through varied content formats and interactive tools. This is particularly beneficial for cognitively impaired students who rely on assistive technologies like screen readers or text-to-speech software in order to navigate the web effectively.
Digital environments that fail to account for accessibility can leave wide segments of society without access to its benefits, hindering employment opportunities, social connections, and participation in decisions that affect them. A11y (pronounced “ah-lee”) has become a global rallying cry for greater inclusivity and participation – as an essential step toward creating an inclusive society.
Communication
Communication challenges associated with online learning can present themselves. From an issue arising with student computers to difficulties with the tutor’s Internet connectivity, effective dialogue must take place to ensure smooth operation.
Instructors need to find other ways of communicating with their students outside of a Learning Management System’s integrated communication tools, such as email, announcements, messages, podcasts or video messages – these methods should all be discussed beforehand with students so they know where they can find your communications.
As adults can often have busy lives and may live in different time zones, adult students require prompt responses when their questions or concerns arise. Being available and responsive quickly to adult student queries or concerns will keep motivation high and ensure engagement in class; also providing timely feedback may give confidence that work is being read and understood, helping prevent feelings of alienation among peers.