Is Online Learning The Future of Education?

Online learning is the fastest-growing form of education globally. You may be wondering, though, if online courses can really replace traditional schools.

Some people believe that online learning will take over the future of education, while others are adamant that there's no substitute for the face-to-face experience. Online learning has been growing in popularity and will continue to do so as CPD certification becomes more important. As online learning becomes more popular, it's important you gain the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in this new environment.

There are plenty of benefits to taking an online course including flexibility and accessibility, so let’s take a look at what you need to know to stay ahead in this new environment and how you can prepare for what the future holds.

What is Online Learning?

Online learning is a form of education where students access their instructors, course materials, and even the class itself through an electronic medium.

Online learning has become an increasingly popular way to gain new skills and knowledge in recent years. It's a type of education that takes place in a virtual environment instead of attending physical classes in person.

Online courses can be taken by anyone, anywhere globally – all you need is an internet connection!

There are many different online courses available today, including Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs), degree pathways, continuing professional development programs for teachers, and much more.

Reasons why you should consider taking an online course

There are tons of reasons why you should consider taking an online course, but here are just a few:

FLEXIBILITY

The flexibility of online courses is one of the top reasons many people start taking them. There are thousands of different types of online courses available today, so you're sure to find something that fits your needs and interests perfectly! For example, if you want to take a history course, there are dozens of different online programs to choose from.

ACCESSIBILITY

Another great thing about online courses is that they're accessible to everyone! There are no geographical boundaries when it comes to taking an online course – you can study anywhere in the world as long as you have a reliable internet connection.

CONVENIENCE

Convenience is another significant factor that contributes to the popularity of online courses. With no need to commute or spend hours in a classroom, you can study at your own pace and time.

INDIVIDUALISATION

Another benefit of online courses is that they offer  high individualisation. You can access your course materials and instructor whenever you need them, which is great if you're a busy person.

AFFORDABILITY

The final reason why many people decide to take online courses is that they're often more affordable than traditional education programs. This is especially true for those who live in rural areas and would otherwise not access the courses they need.

How COVID 19 has impacted the state of online learning?

COVID 19 has been able to make a positive impact on online learning. The virus has forced many people to take online courses that they wouldn't have otherwise, and it's also made employers more interested in hiring people with CPD certification.

As a result, the demand for online courses is higher than ever, and schools struggle to keep up.

According to the Student Covid Insights Survey (SCIS) by the Office for National Statistics (ONS), Universities were expected to stop face-to-face teaching during this autumn term; when students were asked whether they felt equipped to engage with online learning, 16% disagreed or strongly disagreed.

When respondents were asked if all university lectures would be conducted online from January 22, one-in-four said they would be extremely unlikely to return home, with half of the students claiming they will be likely or extremely likely to return.

When asked if they would be likely or extremely likely to ask for a refund for a part, or all of their fees if all university instruction was conducted online from January, half of the students said yes.

A whopping 81% of students said they would be ready, or highly eager to continue their education if all university teaching was conducted online in January.

Future of Education

Following a year marked by a global pandemic, school closures, nationwide remote instruction, education's position has never been more vital or ambiguous. The question of what the future of education holds has sparked debate amongst education experts.

With the assistance of technology, students can enrol in courses anywhere in the world. Teachers can transmit knowledge through online platforms with their peers around the globe. Educational institutions have so many choices regarding what they will offer their learners.

However, with all this advancement comes several concerns about whether or not online education can replace or replicate the traditional educational experience.

Human connections and interactions are at the heart of education. While technology has allowed us to significantly enhance these interactions, there is much that it cannot replace. The future of education will lie in finding the perfect balance between online and traditional learning environments moving forward.

Summary

Online learning has increased over the last decade. It is projected to continue growing as more people take advantage of this technology and how it can help them learn at their own pace without commuting or spending hours in a classroom.

COVID19 has impacted the state of online learning positively as it has forced many people to take online courses that they wouldn't have otherwise. The future of education is still uncertain, but experts believe it will lie in finding the perfect balance between online and traditional learning environments.

We must remember that human connections are at the heart of education, and technology cannot replace them. Let's hope that we can find the right balance for future generations!