The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic and its imposition of lockdowns to contain the infection underscored the need for parents and teachers to embrace online learning. Although physical attendance of classes is ideal, online learning has several advantages. Some of these advantages are highlighted below.
Flexibility
- Firstly, online learning allows the learner to enjoy a more flexible schedule as they attend virtual classes and do assignments at the time that is more convenient to them and in the environment that they are comfortable in.
Convenience
- Secondly, online learning is more convenient as all the learner needs is a digital device and an internet connection. Learners can thus attend classes from any location of their choice. Learning providers can reach out to a more extensive network of students without restricting themselves to geographical locations.
Increased collaboration
- Increased collaboration is another benefit of online learning. Learners have better opportunities to collaborate with other classmates through virtual study groups.
Cost effectiveness
- Online learning reduces financial costs associated with learning such as transportation, accommodation, meals, and the cost of study materials among many others. Additionally, it creates a paperless learning environment as all resources are available online while being environmentally friendly.
Efficiency
- Online learning offers teachers an efficient way of delivering innovative and engaging lessons to students. It provides a variety of teaching aids such as videos, PDF’s, podcasts, and past exam practice questions among many other resources which can be incorporated into lesson plans. These can be tailored to meet the different needs and learning styles of different students and hence improve the efficiency of delivery of the content.
Improved student attendance
- Since online classes can be taken from home or any location of choice, there are fewer chances of students missing out on lessons.