Advantages and Disadvantages of e-learning
there are many advantages to online and computer -based learning when
compared to traditional face-to-face courses and lectures .There are a few
disadvantages as well
Advantages of online or computer -based learning
-class work can be scheduled around work and family
-Reduces travel time and travel costs for off-campus students
-students may have the option to select learning materials that meets
their level of knowledge and interest
-students can study anywhere they have access to a computer and internet
connection
-Self-paced learning modules allow students to work at their own pace
-Flexibility to join discussions in the bulletin board threaded
discussion areas at any hour , or visit with classmates and instructors remotely
in chat rooms
-Instructors and students both report e-learning fosters more interaction
among students and instructors than in large lecture courses
-e-learning can accommodate different learning styles and facilitate
learning through a variety of activities
-Develops knowledge of the Internet and computers skills that will help
learners throughout their lives and careers
-Successfully completing online or computer-based courses builds
self-knowledge and self-confidence and encourages students to take
responsibility for their learning
-Learners can test out of or skim over materials already mastered and
concentrate efforts in mastering areas
containing new containing new information and/or skills.
Disadvantages of online or computer -based learning
-learners with low motivation or bad study habits may fall behind
-without the routine structures of a traditional class , students may
get lost or confused about course activities and deadlines
-students may feel isolated from the instructor and classmates
-Instructor may not always be available when students are studying or
need help
-Slow Internet connections or older computers may make accessing course
materials frustrating
-Hands-on or lab work is difficult to simulate in a virtual classroom
-There are still many fields of study
like healthcare and engineering
that require practical instruction and are not available fully online
Virtual learning / pros
Nowadays , it is more than
evident that virtual learning in increasingly becoming one of the most crucial
debated controversial issues that may positively transform the educational
system all over the world for several
reasons
First of all , a virtual course is as close as a computer with an
internet connection .Hence , students can take online courses whenever they
need them , not based on some college's annual or semester schedule and with no
set class times , students themselves decide when to complete their assignments
and readings . They personally set the pace.
Added to this , prices are often cheaper for online courses than
traditional college and trade courses with no housing or meals plans to worry
about .Moreover , students don't feel the necessity to travel or move far away
from home for learning
Last but not least , virtual school reinforces reading skills and offers
up-to-date references and books . it may also provide audio-visual learning
aids such as clips , lectures , pictures and exam research papers .
I personally think that virtual learning can prepare students for real
professional career via training courses on the net in world that is becoming
more digital and globalized
Virtual learning / Cos
Nowadays , it is more than evident that virtual learning is increasingly
becoming one of the most crucial debated controversial issues that may
positively transform the educational system all over the world .Yet this system
still hides its own blemishes
First of all , if applicable a virtual course requires high budgets for
computer , software programs , and internet connection , Such a fact may
deprive poor families and even countries
of the right of new educational tools which would be restricted and
monopolized by the most industrialized nations
Moreover, at times virtual students may experience feelings of isolation
or a sense of detachment from the real
school due to the lack of face-to-face interaction especially in self-paced
courses or difficultly in developing relationships with classmates .
To cap all , students will be required to be able to work unsupervised
and they will have to problem solve solutions independently , So unless they
are self-motivated and disciplined to progress through their programme in a timely manner , success will be highly
farfetched
Generally speaking , virtual learning as a new and innovated method of
schooling surely imports its benefits ; but it wouldn't reach its pragmatic an
realistic features overnight.