The University of London became the First University to offer full Degrees in the Distance mode, and they called it ‘External Programme.’ Purdue University, one of the best Universities in the US, saw an 8% decline in the number of enrollments from 2014 till 2016, for Classroom Programs. At the same time, the demand for Online Programs grew significantly.
My research for a few other Eminent Universities in the US and Europe also indicates a similar trend.
Even before the Covid-19 pandemic, we could see a surge in the Online Learning market. The pandemic has indeed made us realize the gravity of the need to shift to online. The e-learning Industry worldwide is set to exceed $336 billion by 2026, and this is BIG.
It is fascinating to learn about how Online Education evolved and became a Multi-billion dollar industry today.
An Exciting Story of Online Education
The Story of Online Education is linked to not just the birth of the Internet but the Invention of the computer itself and developments in the Telecommunication industry.
The Fact-check that I ran to understand how many people have either taken an online Education or interested in one gave a few impressive figures.
The first point worth mentioning here is, the number of learners on the Online learning platform is ever-increasing and shows no signs of decline. This speaks a ton for the success of this Innovative and highly engaging Educational model that will soon overtake Classroom Education a couple of years from now.
However, we cannot neglect the transformative power of Classroom Education and the student’s inclination towards it. The Traditional Educational method has its benefits and features for which it is loved and accepted by Students worldwide, especially in College and University Education.
The biggest challenge, or can I say, the competition Online Education has to meet while contending with Online Education, is Delivery and Engagement Methods. This is where Technology is a Must.
From the discussion so far, Online Education has merits and demerits. In this article, let us discuss some of them.
Advantages
From a Student’s perspective, especially those studying and working at the same time, Online Education is undoubtedly a boon; that can enhance their Learning to an altogether different level and accelerate their career growth.
Apart from this, here are some of the top Advantages of Online Education.
Flexibility:
Allows students a higher level of flexibility as they can learn from their home’s comfort at their pace.
Technology:
enabled Learning provides seamless integration of various entities of Online Education like Learning Management systems, Student Support, Interaction with Faculties, and so on.
Cost-Effectiveness:
Students, mostly International Students, can save on their travel and accommodation
Work-Study Balance:
The constant changes occurring in the economy keep students and working professionals on their toes when it comes to skill development. Upskilling has become one of the most effective ways to learn new skills and Practices. Realizing this, Organizations are looking at upskilling their employees to remain competitive and relevant in their business.
However, this is easier said done. With hectic work schedules, family commitments, and other priorities, it is challenging to set aside time for Learning. This is exactly where Online Education scores an upper hand over classroom learning by exposing students to holistic learning methods.
Updated and Not Outdated Curriculum:
Online Education has come to be loved by all, especially working professionals, because they will learn what it requires to take up futuristic Jobs. With the Technology landscape changing very quickly, Organizations are looking to hire only the best Minds with the latest skills, who can quickly adapt.
Fosters Creativity and Independent Thinking:
Self-studying activities are included in online Learning, focusing on encouraging students to become independent thinkers and better planners.
Learn Beyond Borders:
Online Education allows students to learn from top Universities in the world, wherever they are from. This will also give students a lifetime opportunity to enhance their professional network and accelerate their careers.
Challenges
According to a 2019 report from AA, approximately 60-70% of Students still prefer to learn in a classroom because they feel Online Education suffers from a few limitations, and here are some of them.
- High dependence on Technology making it impossible for computer-illiterate people to learn
- Expensive
- Missing Life Skill Experiences that one can get only in Classroom Education
- Can be distractive
- A high rate of course abandonment due to low engagement
- Low Acceptance for Online Degree holders in a few Organizations
- Low success rates for students with Poor self-discipline
- Harmful effects from staring at the computer screen for more prolonged durations
- Quite a task to receive feedback and identify improvement areas
- Students might become emotionally distant.
- Limitation in the choice of Programs and electives
Conclusion
A large number of Universities in India have commenced Online Degree Programs and accepted well in the market. Students are excited about learning the new way and Upskilling for more significant career opportunities. Corporate companies encourage their employees to take up online courses in their interest field and contribute to the company’s considerable growth.
There is no doubt that Online Learning is here to stay and will continue to evolve with Technology. You will see an increasing number of colleges and Universities worldwide adapting Online Learning and change the way knowledge is consumed.
Author Bio:
Rashmi is a highly passionate writer with more than 5 years of experience in content writing in multiple formats like Blogs, Articles, Newsletters, Social Media Content, Academic writing for undergraduate and postgraduate students, and so on. With her ability to research and fine attention to detail, she is capable of developing simple, clear, and concise content that impacts the readers. She is an avid reader and mostly loves reading Fiction by Indian authors and Self Help books; Rohinton Mistry, Amitav Ghosh, and Ruskin Bond being some of her favorite writers.
Managing her time effectively between her profession and family, when time is on her side, she loves to write on Momspresso, A Letter to the Stranger, and other platforms that spread inspiring ideas and celebrate the lives of Changemakers.
Check her LinkedIn page Rashmi Arun | LinkedIn
Posts You May Like to Read:
