Whether or not online only learning is as effective as traditional face-to-face teaching methods has been widely debated among educational professionals. Research consensus has shown that online only learning can often be more effective and offer a huge range of benefits; however, there are a couple of downsides.
Read on to find out how effective online only learning can be and some of the challenges it might present.
The Pros
You can learn more in online only courses
Online only learning courses use a range of multimedia technologies to explore more content than ever before, something that many have learnt to adapt to in recent months. Students have full control over their own learning, and they can work at their preferred pace, meaning they can take in more material and information than in face-to-face courses. When you work at your own speed, you can move quickly through subject matter you find easy and take your time in the areas you need to.
Online only courses have higher retention rates
Many students struggle to complete face-to-face courses as the content moves faster than they are prepared for. Online only study offers students the chance to interact with engaging multimedia content while taking control over how they take in the material. Plus, you have a lower likelihood of your studies clashing with other commitments because you get to choose when you learn.
Fewer time investments and travel requirements
Getting to and from classes and working within a timetable that is chosen on your behalf can be a major time commitment. Online only learning typically allows students to split the time they are investing in the course however it suits them. You can learn at any time, in any environment, if you have access to the internet.
Assessments are an ongoing process
Students find that having more frequent assessments throughout the term can reduce distractions. Regular short tests can improve student engagement and content retention whereas major assessments towards the end of the semester tend to result in procrastination and huge levels of stress. Tutors also have the capability of tracking a student’s progress and stepping in to offer support when necessary.
The Cons
Lack of physical connections
One reported disadvantage of online only courses is the lack of student interaction and socialisation. Many people enjoy studying because of the friends they make along the way and this can be difficult when your classmates exist in the digital world.
Older students tend to care less about this disadvantage because of how online only short courses fit into their current lifestyle and social calendar. Additionally, there is always the option to meet with your classmates when working on group assessments or to mingle with like-minded people.
Lack of motivation and organisation
Make sure you are 100 percent committed and focused if you choose to study online, as procrastination and a lack of motivation can be your enemy if you’re easily distracted online.
It’s easy to make excuses to not study when no one is there telling you what to do. Try and stick to a study schedule of your own and organise your days around this so you don’t end up falling behind.
Enrol in on-campus and online only TAFE courses today
TAFE Gippsland offers a range of both online only and on-campus courses that will help you open pathways to your future career. Browse our complete list of online only courses here and get in touch for more information. To find the right study pathway for you, contact us online or call us on 1300 475 146.