Key difference between learning online and learning in a classroom

Let us take a look at some of the key benefits of online learning and some of the issues to consider when comparing online and face-to-face modes of learning and teaching.

Flexible learning

One key difference in learning online is its’ “flexibility” where one as a learner can decide when and where to participate on a particular course. Especially in countries and classrooms where formal classroom learning has become extremely difficult due to displacement or political hindrances- learning online has become a popular option. This encourages a learner to learn a language or any other topic who might otherwise not learn something new due to obstacles posed in his internal/ external environment. Online learning can be very suitable for those with busy schedules because you have the freedom to adjust your time effectively. Online learning can be learner centered and cater to a large number of learners at any given time. The students have the space to be very selective of what they want to learn. A learner can choose the topics he/she might not be interested in rather than having to go thorough the entire course/ broad themes that he/she might not be interested in or that has no relevance to their learning.


Online discussions

Online discussions can be considered another significant difference found in online learning. Discussions are mostly text based and are likely to be asynchronous which means they don’t always follow a set time. This benefit can help neutralize dominant personalities ,where weaker and less confident learners can contribute their ideas too. Interestingly, asynchronous online discussions allow students who are less confident in communicative situations, time to think about their responses and give measured and considered answers and replies to discussions. This is very useful especially in advanced classes where a lot of thoughtful answers are generated. Introducing a topic for students to think about and comment on through a chat forum/ face book page before a study session would be a good example.

Archiving

Moreover, online discussions are often archived for future reference where you can go back to learn key vocabulary, key grammar, or any areas of language , sentences that will help a learner. Online learning promotes self study to a great extent where a learner takes the responsibility for his own learning. A self learner is responsible for directing where, and how often you learn and access the resources that are available on the courses that he/she is studying. So a learner will be required to do a lot of self research to learn more on the course to enhance one’s knowledge in the given subject area, while managing their time efficiently.

Challenges in online learning

Online learning has the tendency to make social bonds weaker when compared to face-to face learning where social cohesion is more stronger. In face-to face learning discussions can be responsive and spontaneous. An individual is likely to get quick feedback. Also from a tutor’s perspective, a tutor has more control over the events taking place within a classroom. On the other hand, in online learning, the tutor support is not immediate, so students who have been accustomed to a face to face learning environment might find it difficult to adjust to an online learning sessions initially. Although, you can get a response, it might not come in the time you expect it, making you wait for any feedback at times.

Although it is quite clear that there are pros and cons to online learning, the choice of study option should be based on what you want to get out of the whole learning experience.- and you’ll have the answer.